| | Every day, more than 1,262 dedicated deputies patrol our neighborhoods, protect our schools and serve Broward County. The Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) Department of Law Enforcement (DLE) remains steadfast in our mission to deliver exceptional service, ensuring safety and maintaining trust in every corner of our county. The DLE provides comprehensive law enforcement services to cities across Broward County, including all unincorporated areas and critical county infrastructure such as the Broward County Courthouses, the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Port Everglades and parts of the Florida Everglades and the county's waterways. Our approach to public safety is both proactive and service-oriented, combining law enforcement response with crime prevention, community engagement and specialized support services. Each year, deputies respond to more than 702,000 calls for service in BSO patrol jurisdictions, confronting public safety challenges head-on and working tirelessly to keep our communities safe. Our crime prevention efforts begin with our connections to the community. Through our While You Were Sleeping program, deputies patrol your neighborhoods, spotting simple security concerns such as an unlocked car or an open garage door. Crime prevention is reinforced through education, as deputies will leave a notice with a few actionable tips. This educational outreach equips residents with crucial information to avoid becoming a victim and prevent crimes of opportunity. Additionally, our Vacation Home Watch program offers residents in BSO patrol jurisdictions daily property checks while they are out of town, helping to ensure homes remain secure. In addition to crime prevention efforts, the DLE prioritizes youth and neighborhood programming and services through our Youth & Neighborhood Services Division. Programs such as the Explorer and Fire Rescue Cadet Program, Police Athletic League and L.E.A.D. Camp (Learning, Educating and Developing) reach more than 300 youth and families every year, helping to shape the next generation of leaders. Our School Resource Officers provide a critical layer of security to our schools, which also encompasses mentorship and fostering positive relationships with law enforcement. BSO's Neighborhood Support Team (NST) is the cornerstone of community policing, building community trust through transparency and collaboration. In 2024, NST established more than 30 new community partnerships and participated in over 1,300 outreach events, strengthening the bond between law enforcement and the residents we serve. BSO's Community/Neighborhood Events & Logistics Unit extends that connection even further. This team coordinates and hosts numerous events, including our Shred-A-Thons and Operation Medicine Cabinet, which directly target threats like identity theft and prescription drug abuse by shredding personal documents and securely disposing of unused, unwanted or expired medications. This unit also provides meaningful support to residents through charitable drives and homeless outreach efforts. In 2024, the Homeless Outreach Unit made more than 1,600 contacts with individuals experiencing homelessness, connecting them with critical services to help break the cycle of homelessness. DLE is also setting a national standard for crisis intervention and mental health response. Our crisis intervention trained deputies handled more than 6,000 mental health and suicidal crisis calls last year, employing advanced de-escalation training to ensure safety for all. Through our innovative Co-Responder model, pairing deputies with mental health professionals, we achieved a 96% success rate in reducing repeat 911 calls, resulting in zero use of force and offering effective response in moments of crisis. Protecting our community and ensuring justice is the driving force behind BSO's Civil Division. Behind the scenes, this division is responsible for the statutory processing and service of vital court and other legal documents. This includes subpoenas, evictions, domestic violence injunctions, arrest orders, child pick up orders and writs of garnishment. In 2024, the division processed over 76,000 cases, of which nearly 12,000 were related to domestic violence. The Civil Division also helps recover property, collect court-ordered payments and oversee related sales. In 2024, the total money received, deposited and disbursed was more than $1.6 million. From our neighborhoods to our waterways and from crisis response to community partnerships, the men and women of BSO's Department of Law Enforcement stand ready to protect, prevent and serve with excellence every single day. Visit www.sheriff.org to learn more about how BSO's Department of Law Enforcement serves the community and how you can join our team. Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward
| | December | 2025 | | | Few communities in the nation rely on one agency for as many vital public safety functions as Broward County. Among more than 3,000 sheriff’s offices nationwide, the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) stands out as one of the few full-service public safety organizations in the nation, integrating law enforcement, fire rescue, detention, 911 communications and a host of regional services under one umbrella. Serving nearly two million residents across 1,200 square miles, BSO operates one of the most comprehensive public safety systems in the country.
BSO provides law enforcement to 12 cities and all unincorporated areas of Broward County, protecting neighborhoods, businesses and key infrastructure like Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, Port Everglades and the Broward County Courthouses. Our specialized units, including Aviation, Marine Patrol, K-9, Motors and SWAT, are among the most active in the nation. BSO’s intelligence-led Threat Intervention Tactics Analytics Network (TITAN) works to prevent acts of violence and terrorism, while our Fire Rescue and Emergency Services division handles emergencies from hazardous materials, technical recue and critical, lifesaving air rescue. In 2020, we launched a unique whole blood program, which provides vital lifesaving resources to patients in a pre-hospital setting. To date, we have seen a 79.4% survival rate.
We also manage all of Broward’s jail facilities, including inmate programs, court services and the 911 Regional Communications Center, which answers nearly 2.4 million for service calls per year. Our unique Real Time Crime Center supports law enforcement countywide with real-time intelligence, while our nationally accredited Crime Lab processes over 10,000 forensic cases annually.
Behind the scenes, our Neighborhood Support Team ensures our teams stay connected to the community. Last year alone, through our Park, Walk and Talk program, we participated in more than 40,000 neighborhood conversations listening to concerns and building relationships with the people we serve. Our state-of-the-art Research, Development Training Center (R.D.T.C.) is transforming the readiness and performance of our public safety professionals. In just one year, the R.D.T.C. hosted 3,068 individuals for firearms safety and proficiency training; 1,954 students engaged in rigorous shoothouse training, sharpening tactical decision-making and critical response skills; 2,320 professionals enhanced their defensive tactics skills building strength, control and resilience under pressure; 8,779 participants completed classroom-based instruction, reflecting on BSO’s deep commitment to continuous learning and strategic development.
This message is the start of a series introducing the unified strength of the Broward Sheriff’s Office. Excellence is our standard at BSO. In the coming months, you’ll learn how every division works together to serve Broward County, keeping the community safe and prepared.
Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony Service Equals Reward
| | November | 2025 | | | At the Broward Sheriff's Office, we are redefining public safety. Our proactive strategy is simple: we work with our community to prevent crime, build stronger neighborhoods and foster trust with residents throughout Broward County.
One of our most impactful initiatives is the Park, Walk and Talk program. Our deputies step out of their patrol cars and into neighborhoods, connecting directly with residents they serve. Last year alone, these face-to-face interactions resulted in over 40,000 valuable conversations across Broward County. This is our chance to listen to your concerns, learn about the issues that matter to you and build the trust that allows us to work together to solve problems.
During many of these interactions, we empower our residents with the tools to protect their family and property. Through our While You Were Sleeping program, deputies patrol your neighborhoods, spotting simple security issues like an unlocked car or an open garage door. We will leave a notice with a few actionable tips to inform you of important steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim and prevent crimes of opportunity.
For those planning a trip, our Vacation Home Watch program provides peace of mind by ensuring a deputy or BSO representative regularly checks on your home and reports any unusual activity. It's these kinds of simple, proactive measures have proven invaluable in preventing burglaries and other crime, keeping our communities secure.
Our commitment to public safety goes far beyond daily patrols. BSO’s Community/Neighborhood Events & Logistics Unit plays a critical role in crime prevention by building strong partnerships with residents and businesses. Through initiatives such as Shred-A-Thons and Operation Medicine Cabinet, we directly target threats like identity theft and prescription drug abuse. To date, we have safely destroyed more than 113,000 pounds of sensitive documents and collected over 1,000 pounds of unused medications. These proactive programs remove opportunities for crime, reduce risk, strengthen community trust and reinforce our shared responsibility of keeping Broward County safe.
One program I am most proud of is our investment in crime prevention through the Law Enforcement Trust Fund (LETF). Last year, BSO awarded over $1.12 million to more than 100 community nonprofit organizations. These grants support programs that mentor our youth, protect vulnerable populations and provide critical services that reduce risk and prevent crime before it occurs. By redirecting these resources into prevention and community partnerships, we are not only strengthening public safety today but also creating lasting, positive change for the future of Broward County.
The Broward Sheriff’s Office remains committed to these programs and investments. The strength of our partnerships reflects the strength of our community. Every program, every event and every conversation is a step toward a safer Broward County. For more information on these programs and how BSO keeps you safe, visit sheriff.org.
Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony Service Equals Reward
| | October | 2025 | | |
At the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO), public safety is more than our duty; it’s our promise to every resident of Broward County. As your sheriff, I believe our work must be rooted in trust, professionalism and continuous improvement. Last year, we introduced our vision statement: Excellence in Service—a vision that drives how we operate, respond and serve.
At BSO, we are investing in the tools and training to best protect our communities and respond swiftly when it matters most.
Our Real Time Crime Center (R.T.C.C.) is a clear example of innovation with impact, transforming the way we prevent and solve crime across the county. What began as a tool for school safety has grown into a powerful countywide asset—enhancing law enforcement’s ability to effectively respond to and investigate incidents. Leveraging cutting-edge technology such as license plate readers, live camera feeds and open-source intelligence, the R.T.C.C. provides our teams with critical intelligence during emergencies from active shooter events to vehicle pursuits.
The impact is evident. In 2024, the R.T.C.C. experienced its busiest year on record, supporting more than 3,000 live incidents and directly influencing the apprehension of over 260 individuals. This marks a significant increase since previous years - 183% since 2023 and an incredible 552% since 2022. These numbers represent more than data. They reflect safer neighborhoods, faster responses and lives protected.
Innovation at BSO isn’t just about technology—it’s about people. Our Behavioral Health Licensed Therapist (BHLT) program operating within BSO’s R.T.C.C., embeds licensed clinicians alongside detectives to assess threats in real time and connect individuals to the help they need.
Since opening the doors of our Research, Development and Training Center (R.D.T.C.), we have revolutionized the standard for public safety training. In just one year, thousands of BSO personnel and public safety leaders from around the world have participated in collaborative trainings, each leaving the R.D.T.C. better equipped to serve with skill, confidence and professionalism. We are proud of the training enhancements and opportunities we’ve provided for our first responders and are confident in their abilities to respond to today’s evolving threats.
As we look ahead, our promise remains clear: Excellence in Service is not a one-time initiative. It is the daily standard we strive to meet and exceed. We are proud of the progress we’ve made and remain even more committed to earning your trust with every call, every response and every interaction. Together, we will continue building a more resilient, safer Broward County.
Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony Service Equals Reward
| | September | 2025 | | | At the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO), school safety is not just a responsibility—it’s our mission. Every student deserves to feel secure in their classroom, and every parent deserves peace of mind that comes from knowing their child is protected.
We are proud to work in partnership with educators, families and students to create safe, supportive and inclusive learning environments. Our highly trained School Resource Officers (SROs) are at the heart of this effort. These dedicated deputies are not only equipped to respond to the most serious safety threats, but they are also trusted mentors who build positive relationships with the students they serve.
BSO’s SROs undergo rigorous training in tactical response and active assailant scenarios, but their expertise goes beyond law enforcement. They are skilled in behavioral threat assessment, de-escalation techniques and youth mental health awareness, enabling them to respond to crises with professionalism and compassion.
As we are committed to being both a presence on campus and a partner in education, prevention and care, our approach to school safety is proactive. In addition to their specialized training, our SROs work closely with school administrators and mental health professionals as part of Broward County Public Schools’ Behavioral Threat Assessment (BTA) team. Together, they identify early warning signs, intervene before situations escalate, and connect students with the resources and support they need while helping safeguard the entire school community.
At BSO, the safety and wellbeing of our children will always be our highest priority.
But our investment in youth doesn’t stop at school security. BSO proudly offers a variety of programs that empower young people to grow as leaders and explore careers in public safety:
•The Law Enforcement Explorer Program introduces youth ages 14–20 to the world of policing through hands-on experiences in patrol procedures, self-defense, community engagement and more. •The Fire Rescue Cadet Program trains future lifesavers ages 14–17 with real-world skills in emergency response, fire suppression, CPR and hazardous material mitigation. •L.E.A.D. Camp (Learning, Educating, and Developing) offers teens aged 13–17 a summer of leadership development, mentorship and character-building activities that foster smart decision-making and self-confidence.
These programs build discipline, teamwork and leadership, preparing today’s youth to become tomorrow’s heroes.
As a new school year begins, BSO remains steadfast in our commitment to protect, mentor and uplift Broward County’s students. Together, we can create schools where every child feels safe, supported and empowered to succeed.
Learn more about how we’re investing in youth and school safety at sheriff.org.
Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony Service Equals Reward
| | August | 2025 | | | One year ago, on July 11, 2024, a bold vision became reality with the official opening of the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) state-of-the-art Research, Development and Training Center (R.D.T.C.). This purpose-built facility stands as a beacon of progress, elevating every aspect of training, preparedness and professional development. Through the ongoing training conducted within its walls, we are not only preparing for a safer, more resilient Broward County—we are building it.
Every facet of the R.D.T.C. was meticulously designed to enhance the capabilities of our first responders and civilian personnel. From immersive simulation labs that sharpen decision-making under pressure to specialized rooms that simulate complex environments, the R.D.T.C. provides realistic and challenging scenarios to ensure our team is ready to respond to any call for service. The tactical firing ranges and customizable shoot house promote precision and adaptability, while the defensive tactics room strengthens the physical readiness essential for navigating real-world encounters. This facility sets a new standard for public safety training and service, delivering realism, intensity and excellence at every level.
The early impact of the R.D.T.C. speaks volumes. In just the first six months, we welcomed first responders, civilian staff and a number of local, national and international partner organizations who embraced this transformative opportunity. Our records show 2,157 participants completed firearms training, ensuring our sworn personnel maintain the highest safety and proficiency standards. Another 555 students completed rigorous shoot house training to build critical tactical readiness, and 2,315 participants enhanced their defensive tactics skills through mat room exercises. Beyond the physical, our commitment to intellectual growth is highlighted by the 2,756 students who completed various classroom instruction, reflecting BSO’s culture of continuous learning and strategic development.
Readiness extends beyond tactical skills. True preparedness requires physical strength, mental clarity and ongoing wellness support. The R.D.T.C. offers exceptional health and fitness resources that have been enthusiastically embraced by our team. Over the past year, participation in fitness programs and wellness services has been strong, reflecting a shared commitment to staying mission ready. From structured exercise classes and one-on-one fitness consultation to access to physical therapy, pain management and expert nutritional guidance, the center supports our personnel in maintaining peak performance. These offerings reinforce a fundamental truth: effective public safety starts with a workforce that is both physically strong and mentally sharp—and the R.D.T.C. is nurturing both.
The R.D.T.C. represents more than just brick and mortar—it is a strategic investment in our most valuable resource: our people. This facility reflects our dedication to innovation and excellence in service. Through decisive action and forward-thinking leadership, we are not just training first responders—we are shaping the future of public safety.
As we mark nearly one year of operations at the R.D.T.C., we reflect with pride on how far we’ve come in such a short time. The progress is real—and it’s only the beginning. We remain committed to evolving our training, advancing our mission and supporting our personnel, with the safety and well-being of the Broward community continuing to guide everything we do.
Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony Service Equals Reward
| | July | 2025 | | | As Florida prepares for the 2025 hurricane season, the safety our residents remains our top priority. The Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) plays a vital role in this effort, with our dedicated High Water Response Task Force (HWRTF) standing ready to respond.
The BSO HWRTF was created following the torrential rainfall that impacted Fort Lauderdale and other coastal areas of Broward County in April 2023. Since then, the team has been specially trained and is equipped to respond to dangerous floods, heavy rain events or hurricanes across South Florida and the state. This critical group is comprised of dozens of trained divers from BSO’s Department of Preparedness and Response and Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services. Their mission is to rescue individuals trapped in their cars, homes or in other high-water environments only accessible by boat, high-clearance vehicles or on foot. Earlier this year, task force members participated in their first large-scale, hands-on training exercise designed to sharpen their rescue techniques and strengthen coordination during high-risk, high-water scenarios.
While BSO is prepared to respond, individual and family preparedness is equally important. As hurricane season approaches, it is imperative to proactively safeguard your household and protect your loved ones. Start by stocking up early—make sure you have enough food, water, medications and other essentials to last at least five days. Preparing in advance helps you avoid the last-minute rush and ensures you’re ready when a storm approaches.
Evacuations are more common than many realize, so it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with designated evacuation zones. You can find your zone by visiting www.floridadisaster.org/knowyourzone. In addition to knowing your zone, creating a family communication plan is another key step. Discuss how you’ll stay in contact if separated, identify emergency meeting locations and confirm that all family members know how to reach one another. If you or a loved one has a disability, health concern or special need, it’s important to register with the Vulnerable Population Registry by calling the Broward County Call Center at 311 or 954-831-4000 (TTY 954-831-3890).
Don’t forget your pets in your emergency planning. Make sure they have proper identification and prepare a kit that includes food, water, medications, veterinary records, carrying crates and a pet-specific first aid kit. Also, be sure to have a shelter plan in place—only designated pet-friendly shelters are equipped to accept animals during evacuations.
Finally, stay informed by following local news outlets, your city’s social media channels and by visiting sheriff.org for up-to-date hurricane information and safety resources. Staying connected with BSO on social media will also ensure you receive timely weather alerts, preparedness tips and critical updates. For easy access to all our social media platforms, visit https://linktr.ee/browardsheriffsoffice.
By working together and prioritizing preparedness, we can collectively ensure a safer hurricane season for Broward County.
Be Ready. Be Safe. Be Prepared.
Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony Service Equals Reward
| | June | 2025 | | | Broward County, like many communities across the nation, has been affected by the opioid crisis. Over the years, we have witnessed the tragic effects of addiction, leading to countless lives lost and families torn apart. Understanding that addiction cannot be effectively addressed without mental health awareness and support, the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) has adopted a multifaceted approach that prioritizes both addiction recovery and mental well-being.
BSO, in partnership with healthcare providers and community organizations has deployed a comprehensive strategy to address these crises, incorporating intervention, education and mental health support. We have equipped our patrol deputies with naloxone, a life-saving opioid overdose reversal drug, and have successfully saved hundreds of lives. Our partnerships with key stakeholders have led to public awareness campaigns and prescription drug takeback programs that are making a tangible impact. We have provided our deputies and investigators with high-tech drug detection devices that are extremely accurate in determining the presence of dangerous substances in trace amounts to limit exposure while conducting investigations. BSO’s Community Programs Treatment Division continues to service the 17th Judicial Circuit’s Drug Court Program and remains vigilant in determining and testing for new and dangerous street drugs.
To enhance intervention efforts, we have integrated peer specialists into our jails, ensuring that those struggling with addiction receive immediate support and access to treatment, including medication assisted therapy. Additionally, we have helped secure funding for behavioral health receiving centers, providing first responders with alternative locations to transport individuals in crisis rather than defaulting to incarceration. We recognize many individuals facing addiction are also battling mental health challenges, and these receiving centers offer integrated care to address both.
Our strategy extends beyond enforcement to proactive solutions focusing on education, treatment, long-term recovery and mental health awareness. By leveraging crime mapping, overdose fatality reviews and data-driven approaches, we are identifying high-risk areas and deploying targeted outreach efforts. We have also worked with state and federal agencies to secure funds necessary to ensure Broward County continues to have the resources needed to combat this crisis.
While there is still work to be done, we are encouraged by the positive results we’ve seen. Our commitment remains steadfast, and we will continue to fight for solutions and support those in recovery.
If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, we urge you to reach out to our community partners and utilize the resources in place to support you. Call 211 or visit Broward Addiction Recovery Center and The United Way of Broward County for more information. Together, we can continue to make a difference and build a safer, healthier Broward County.
Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony Service Equals Reward
| | May | 2025 | | | On January 8, 2025, Broward Sheriff Fire Rescue responded to an emergency at a home where an elderly woman was found unconscious. Upon arrival, firefighter/paramedics assessed her condition and determined she was suffering from dangerously low blood pressure and shock due to internal bleeding. Recognizing the urgency, the team made a critical, life-saving decision to administer whole blood on-site.
BSO is revolutionizing pre-hospital trauma care with its groundbreaking Whole Blood Program, reinforcing its commitment to providing the highest level of emergency medical services. As the first organization in Florida – and one of few nationwide – to administer whole blood transfusions, BSO is leading the way in this critical intervention.
Whole blood – a complete blood product containing unseparated platelets, packed red blood cells and plasma – has revolutionized trauma care. Previous standard practice was to administer saline to patients suffering from blood loss. While saline can aid in hydration, it lacks the oxygen-carrying red blood cells and clotting factors necessary to stop bleeding. Though saline buys time, it does not address the core issues: hemorrhaging and loss of oxygen to the brain. Whole blood, however, provides both, which significantly improves a trauma patient’s chance of survival. BSO’s Whole Blood Program eliminates dangerous delays in treatment by delivering this essential resource at the scene of an emergency or during transport. Since the program’s launch in early 2020, whole blood has been administered to over 262 patients, resulting in an impressive 81% survival rate.
As the first program of its kind in Florida, the BSO Whole Blood Program serves as a model for organizations nationwide seeking to enhance pre-hospital trauma protocol. Its success underscores the importance of bringing advanced medical interventions directly to the scene of an emergency. The BSO Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services is actively pursuing the expansion of this life-saving technique throughout Broward County, ensuring more critically injured patients have access to immediate care.
The Whole Blood Program is a testament to the power of innovation and BSO’s dedication to enhancing our overall public safety services. By pioneering this initiative, BSO is giving trauma patients a greater chance at survival—providing hope when every second counts.
Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony Service Equals Reward
| | April | 2025 | | | Facing increasing demands and complexities of modern emergencies, the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) has taken steps to enhance its capabilities through a transformative investment in three state-of-the-art helicopters for both the Department of Law Enforcement Aviation Unit and the Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services Air Rescue team. The tragic loss of Battalion Chief Terryson Jackson in August 2023, following a devastating helicopter accident, serves as a solemn reminder of the risks we face every day we come to work. Our new helicopters honor his legacy and provide our first responders with critical, cutting-edge tools to elevate emergency response and protect lives. BSO's award-winning Aviation Unit is the sole provider of airborne law enforcement support for all of Broward County. In 2024, the unit flew nearly 2,800 missions and recorded over 1,600 flight hours. Historically operating with two helicopters, the unit welcomed a third Airbus H125 aircraft in mid-November 2024. This state-of-the-art platform, known for its advanced technology and performance capabilities, is equipped with FLIR 380-HDc cameras, digital mapping systems and enhanced navigation tools, providing unparalleled precision and efficiency. The additional aircraft ensures continuous coverage, even during routine maintenance, reducing downtime and improving operational reliability. In 2024, the team's aerial support proved instrumental, aiding in nearly 500 arrests by providing ground units with critical real-time information. The new airship will continue to boost the success of this unit with enhanced capabilities, allowing for quicker emergency response times and expanded surveillance reach. The Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services has significantly upgraded its fleet with two Airbus H145 helicopters, replacing the older EC135 model. The H145s offer increased power, greater payload capacity and advanced features for emergency rescue and firefighting. Key upgrades include hoisting systems for remote rescues, a Bambi Bucket for aerial firefighting, especially in areas like the Everglades, enhanced flight systems with advanced navigation, modern cockpits for improved safety and expanded cabin space for two patients. These helicopters, along with our highly trained crews, will enable faster response times and ultimately save more lives. To honor the legacy of Battalion Chief Jackson, our new fire rescue helicopters will bear his name. These state-of-the-art aircraft represent an ongoing effort to provide our first responders with the best possible tools to protect our community. Equipping our first responders with the most advanced tools, technology and training will continue to be a public safety priority at BSO. Our preparedness ensures we are ready to meet today's challenges while working toward building a stronger, safer community for the future. Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward
| | February | 2025 | | | January marks National Human Trafficking Prevention Month—a month set aside to raise awareness about a pervasive crime that often occurs in plain sight within our communities. While many envision victims as children or women sold into slavery or the sex trade, the reality is far more complex. Human trafficking transcends age, gender and race, encompassing both forced labor and sexual exploitation. The Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) Internet Crimes Against Children/Human Trafficking Unit (HTU) is dedicated to identifying instances of human trafficking, rescuing victims and empowering communities to join the fight against this heinous crime. The HTU investigates intricate cases of exploitation, often rooted in emotional and financial manipulation, working relentlessly to bring perpetrators to justice and provide support to those affected. A notable example of HTU's work is Operation Suite 16, a two-day anti-trafficking operation in partnership with local and state agencies. During the operation, HTU identified and assisted adult trafficking victims, connecting them to critical resources such as shelter, medical care and counseling to help them rebuild their lives. The operation also led to the arrests of individuals who targeted these vulnerable young women, exploiting their struggles with homelessness and addiction and coercing them into commercial sex acts, drug sales and fraudulent activities. This effort highlights the value of multi-agency operations and the meticulous work required to uncover and dismantle these operations. Strong community partnerships are also critical to solving human trafficking cases. Through initiatives like the Stop Abuse, Fight Exploitation (S.A.F.E.) Initiative, the HTU collaborates with prosecutors, code enforcement, local governments, regulatory agencies, homeowners and community leaders. Together, they work to identify, investigate and shut down sexually illicit businesses while preventing the recruitment of future victims. The coordinated efforts of these operations and partnerships underscore the critical importance of interagency collaboration and community education. In addition to enforcement efforts, raising public awareness remains one of the most powerful tools in combating human trafficking. The HTU actively engages with neighborhoods, schools and organizations to educate the public on recognizing the warning signs of human trafficking, including isolation, poor physical health or lack of financial control, and who to call for help. The BSO HTU remains steadfast in its mission to combat this crime, support survivors and protect the vulnerable. Through enforcement, education and collaboration, we can make a meaningful difference and put an end to human trafficking in our communities. Let us commit to being vigilant, compassionate and proactive in this crucial fight. To learn more about human trafficking and how you can help prevent it, visit www.sheriff.org/humantrafficking. Service Equals Reward
Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony *If you suspect someone is a victim of trafficking, reach out immediately to the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. Callers can remain anonymous, and all reports are confidential. In an emergency, call 911.
| | January | 2025 | | | I am incredibly grateful for the faith and confidence you have placed in me and the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO). Your voices have been heard, and our mission advances because of your support. Reflecting on our accomplishments over the last six years, I'd like to highlight a few of the notable successes that have propelled us forward. BSO is now a national leader in public safety training and readiness, equipped to handle any situation. Our Research, Development and Training Center (R.D.T.C.), which opened earlier this year, consolidates our training efforts under one roof and fosters collaborative training and preparedness across our organization's disciplines and departments. Leveraging advanced technology, we've elevated crime detection, prevention and response standards within our Real Time Crime Center (RTCC). Recognizing the importance of mental health, we have emphasized support and services for those in crisis over incarceration. Our Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training, which helps us recognize the signs of those suffering a mental health crisis and de-escalate potentially dangerous interactions, is expanding across our organization. Through our Neighborhood Support Team, Professional Standards Committee and Social Justice Task Force, we strengthen community trust by prioritizing accountability, transparency and responsiveness to public concerns. Additionally, we have invested in the wellness of our team through mental and physical resources and resilience programs. I'm proud of how far we've come—and we are just getting started. Our commitment to "Excellence in Service" will guide us into the future. BSO will continue prioritizing public safety by pursuing initiatives that align with our core values—collaboration, integrity, professionalism, innovation, accountability and effort. Over the next four years, we'll build upon our successes to achieve the goals outlined in our comprehensive strategic plan. Developed with your valuable input, this plan will streamline operations across departments to enhance BSO's service to our community. We will optimize efficiency and effectiveness by promoting stronger teamwork and internal communication. Investing in the professional growth of our first responders is paramount to safeguarding our community. To support this, we are expanding professional development opportunities to provide every team member with the tools necessary to grow within BSO. Additionally, we will implement new programs to cultivate the next generation of leaders, ensuring a sustainable future for our organization. To bolster our commitment to the community, we will allocate resources to build meaningful and lasting connections. Additionally, online educational platforms will make public safety information easily accessible to every resident, regardless of where they reside. To enhance the well-being of our first responders, we will develop new health initiatives to ensure they are always at their physical and mental best, ready to serve the community. Through an early intervention program, we will reach out to BSO employees in need, offering safe and confidential support. With these strategies in place, we are proactively responding to today's public safety needs and laying the foundation for building a stronger, safer future for everyone in our community. As your sheriff, I pledge to continue to lead the Broward Sheriff's Office with excellence, providing the highest level of public safety for all of Broward County. Thank you once again for your support and confidence in our service to you. Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony Service Equals Reward
| | December | 2024 |
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