Family says video shows deputy stealing prescription meds from dead man's home

BOYNTON BEACH, Fla. — The family of an elderly Florida man who died in September says video shows a deputy reentering their home after the man's death, and stealing prescription drugs, reports CBS affiliate WPEC.

Palm Beach County Deputy Jason Cooke has been charged with burglary. Authorities say he stole prescription medications after an elderly man, who authorities found passed out during a welfare check shortly after Hurricane Irma hit on Sept. 12, was taken to a local hospital where he died.

Investigators say shortly after the scene cleared, Cooke, who was not on the original call, showed up to the home and went inside. The home's internal surveillance cameras activated and sent an alert to the homeowner's sons, who called the sheriff's office.

In video released by the family, a man holding a flashlight while wearing what appears to be a police uniform can be seen rummaging in a kitchen, and inspecting pill bottles before reaching into his pocket.

In a statement released Tuesday, the family said the video was recorded about an hour and a half after the dying man was brought to the hospital. In the statement, they accused Cooke of burglary.

"We were outraged and disgusted when we viewed this," the family said.

Cooke was placed on paid administrative leave after being granted bond.