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Deputies investigating Riverview woman's death as homicide

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By JOSH POLTILOVE

jpoltilove@tampatrib.com

Published: April 17, 2009

Updated: 04/17/2009 09:41 pm

A Department of Children & Families staffer was found slain today in her Riverview home, DCF spokesman Terri Field said.

Alisa Jackson, 40, provided training and technical assistance to staff in the field who processed applications for public assistance.

"She was just one of the nicest people you'd ever want to meet," said Field, who had known Jackson for about 10 years. "She was always quick to help people."

The sheriff's office would not confirm whether the body found at Jackson's home was that of Jackson.

The sheriff's office said they received a call from the victim's family members when she didn't show up for a family event Thursday night.

Hillsborough County deputies determined the woman was the victim of a homicide, Maj. Harold Winsett said today.

The site of the investigation is Jackson's home, 10227 Hunters Haven Blvd. in Riverview.

Deputies are processing the scene.

Rey DaCruz, a neighbor, said residents are concerned.

"You come home and you see something like that, it's really scary for us,'' DaCruz said.

Jackson was born in upstate New York and moved to the area in 1996, according to an internal e-mail sent to DCF staffers today about Jackson's death. Jackson started with DCF in 1996 as a public assistance specialist at the North Tampa Service Center, and she was promoted several times.

"Alisa was deeply religious and attended church regularly," the e-mail states. "She loved music and sang in her church choir. She also was an avid collector of anything having to do with pigs.

"More so than any of this, Alisa was a genuinely good person who would do anything for both her co-workers and the Department's customers. Quick with a smile, Alisa was known for her friendly disposition, her willingness to help others, and her dedication to the people we serve. She will truly be missed by her family, friends, and coworkers. Please keep Alisa and her family in your prayers today."

Field said the department doesn't think there is any connection between her job and her death.

News Channel 8 reporter Michael Egger contributed to this report. Reporter Josh Poltilove can be reached at (813) 259-7691.

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