A Lakeland police lieutenant was sentenced Friday to 30 days in jail and 11 months of probation for stalking his ex-wife.
Polk County Judge Beth Harlan insisted on looking into Ralph Schrader's eyes before imposing the punishment.
The judge expressed outrage at Schrader's "arrogance," noting that both of his children suffered through testifying during his week-long first-degree misdemeanor trial.
"If they're not the most important people in your life, they should be," she said.
Harlan said she also was troubled by Schrader's misuse of his city-issued cellular phone and computer to harass his ex-wife.
She ordered that Schrader undergo psychological and domestic violence evaluations as well as any recommended treatment.
The judge ordered that the evaluations and treatment information be shared with the Lakeland Police Department.
The sentencing came after a six-member jury, consisting of three men and three women, found Schrader, 45, guilty of stalking.
Jurors spent about an hour and half deliberating before reaching their verdict.
The judge did agree to withhold adjudication - a formal finding of guilt.
Assistant State Attorney Hope Pattey urged the judge to adjudicate Schrader guilty of stalking.
She said Schrader refused to admit that he tormented his then wife for several months as they were finalizing their divorce.
"He should not be a law enforcement officer anymore," Pattey said.
The Lakeland Police Department's general orders say officers charged and found guilty of a misdemeanor can retain their jobs with the department or face penalties, which could include a maximum of termination.
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