Behind every patrol unit on the road, every piece of life-saving equipment and every community initiative is a deliberate financial decision. While our first responders serve on the front lines, their work is made possible by the professionals behind the scenes who keep our organization operating with transparency, accountability and purpose.

At the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO), the Department of Administration is responsible for making sure every dollar entrusted to us is managed with care and aligned with our mission to protect and serve. For our residents, that means your tax dollars are not only safeguarded but are also strategically invested to strengthen public safety and deliver efficient, meaningful services to Broward County.

At the center of this department, the Office of Management and Budget provides careful planning and oversight to direct resources where they have the greatest impact, supporting personnel, enhancing capabilities and addressing the evolving needs of residents. As part of that effort, the Finance Division manages BSO’s financial operations, while the Purchasing Bureau secures the equipment, technology and services our staff rely on every day. From advanced training resources to critical tools in the field, these investments ensure our workforce is prepared to respond effectively and keep our county safe.

In addition to managing internal resources, the Grants Management Division plays a critical role in expanding our capabilities through external funding. By securing and administering a wide range of grants, the division supports specialized programs, critical equipment and outreach initiatives, allowing us to enhance public safety without increasing the burden on taxpayers. Through our Law Enforcement Trust Fund grant program, BSO reinvests forfeiture funds into local organizations that provide youth opportunities, education and other essential services, strengthening their overall impact.

Public safety is evolving, and so is BSO. To ensure ongoing evaluation and improvement, the Office of Strategic Management (OSM) serves as BSO’s hub for advancing the organization’s strategic plan and driving measurable enhancements across all areas of operation. In doing so, the OSM unites stakeholders and subject-matter experts to identify needs, test solutions and advance industry-leading practices. Their work includes leveraging data to guide decision-making, integrating new technologies, routinely evaluating performance and aligning organizational structure to better support the mission. The OSM ensures these efforts and investments in innovation remain fiscally responsible, reinforcing the progress outlined in our 2024–2025 Annual Report.

As detailed in this year’s Annual Report, our disciplined and transparent approach to managing public funds has resulted in purposeful progress across our services. These outcomes are made possible by the coordination and dedication of the Department of Administration and reflect a deliberate, results-driven effort to deliver value and exceptional service to our community.

I encourage you to review the 2024–2025 Annual Report to see how your investment in public safety is making a difference. It highlights a year of real impact and continued progress, driven by our commitment to transparency, accountability and Excellence in Service. Visit www.sheriff.org/sherifftony/report to read the full report.

Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony

Service Equals Reward

When most people think about a sheriff’s office, they imagine deputies responding to emergencies, making arrests and investigating crimes. While those responsibilities are critical, a true full-service public safety organization must also address what happens after an arrest. That is where the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) Department of Community Programs (DOCP) delivers measurable results.

DOCP provides structured, accountable alternatives to incarceration that combine supervision, treatment and evidence-based intervention. This approach holds individuals responsible while targeting the root causes of repeat offending. Organized into five specialized divisions, Pretrial Services, Misdemeanor Probation, Drug Court Treatment, Juvenile Services and Reentry, DOCP provides a comprehensive continuum of care to reduce the jail population, save millions of tax dollars in incarceration costs and strengthen public safety across Broward County.

BSO’s Pretrial Services and Misdemeanor Probation divisions provide court-ordered supervision for individuals in the community while maintaining accountability and protecting public safety. Established in the early 80s, the Pretrial Services Division is one of the longest-standing programs of its kind in Florida. The division supervises thousands of individuals awaiting trial under court-ordered conditions through reporting requirements, home and office visits, drug testing and, when necessary, electronic monitoring and Global Positioning System (GPS) tracking. By stabilizing employment and preserving family ties, these strategies minimize the impact of criminal justice involvement while directly tackling the root causes of crime. Misdemeanor Probation provides supervision for individuals convicted of misdemeanor offenses through structured reporting and compliance requirements. The division also offers diversion programs for first-time offenders, typically lasting three to six months. Successful completion may result in case dismissal, reinforcing accountability while helping individuals avoid the long-term consequences of a criminal conviction.

BSO’s Drug Court Treatment Division, one of the oldest programs in the nation, addresses one of the primary drivers of criminal behavior: substance use. Participants undergo intensive, court-supervised treatment that includes counseling, frequent drug testing, medication management, psychiatric services and crisis intervention. The program also connects participants with supportive housing, transportation assistance and employment referrals. This comprehensive model reduces recidivism, decreases the risk of relapse and restores stability to individuals and families.

The Community Justice Program provides early intervention for youth, ages seven to 17, through restorative justice and structured diversion. Proactive support for youth offenders significantly lowers the likelihood of future criminal behavior, safeguarding both the individuals involved and the community.

Successful reentry is proven to be one of the most effective crime-reduction strategies available to law enforcement today. For individuals returning to the community post-incarceration, our Reentry Division provides structured supervision, employment assistance, treatment referrals and essential support services to stabilize them during a critical transition period. Through partnerships with community organizations, we host employment and resource fairs, financial literacy workshops and outreach initiatives that address housing instability and workforce barriers.

True public safety is not measured solely by the arrests we make, but by the cycles we break. Through prevention, intervention, structured supervision and successful reentry, our Department of Community Programs is breaking cycles of crime and proactively building a safer, more resilient future for all of Broward County. To learn more about Community Programs, visit sheriff.org.

Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony

Service Equals Reward

The Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) Department of Detention (DOD) operates one of the largest local jail systems in the United States and the sole jail system serving Broward County. Annually, DOD processes approximately 40,000 individuals charged with criminal offenses, ranging from minor violations to serious felony crimes. Every day, our detention professionals maintain secure custody while advancing rehabilitation efforts to strengthen public safety and improve overall outcomes for our community.

The BSO DOD operates four detention facilities, each designed to accommodate different custody levels and security needs. At the center of this system is the Main Jail, a maximum-security facility that includes Central Intake, also known as Booking. Central Intake serves all law enforcement agencies in Broward County. Every individual entering or being released from the county jail system is processed through this location. Staff conduct classification assessments, coordinate court processing and separate inmates based on security risk, medical needs and behavioral considerations. This structured process helps maintain safety, order and operational efficiency throughout the jail system.

Our detention facilities are strategically designed to mitigate incidents and foster a secure operating environment. The Joseph V. Conte facility is a medium-custody facility operating under a direct-supervision model, where deputies are stationed inside the housing units. Similarly, the Paul Rein detention facility, the county’s newest jail, follows the same direct supervision structure for medium/maximum security male and female inmates.

Recognizing that many individuals enter custody with a variety of underlying challenges, these facilities offer a variety of supportive programming resources that promote pro-social attitudes and behavior change to reduce criminal behavior. Program staff, working alongside community volunteers, provide structured activities focused on education, substance abuse, life skills and spiritual guidance. Last fiscal year, over 1,200 incarcerated individuals completed these programs, an important step in reducing repeat offenses and enhancing safety in our community. Building on this commitment to accountability and reform, BSO partnered with Recovery Solutions to launch the Restoring Individuals Safely and Effectively (RISE) Program, the first of its kind in Florida, providing on-site treatment for inmates found incompetent to proceed by the court. By delivering individualized services within a designated jail unit, the RISE Program eliminates treatment delays associated with waiting for state hospital beds, reduces transportation risks and helps accelerate court proceedings.

Our fourth facility is the North Broward Bureau, which specializes as a mental health facility serving inmates with acute psychiatric disorders and other medical needs. A multidisciplinary team of mental health clinicians, medical professionals and certified security staff work together to address complex inmate needs. These services help prepare inmates for a safer transition back into the community while reducing risks to themselves, staff and the public.

Maintaining secure and productive environments for inmates in our care, custody and control continues to be the primary operational focus for BSO’s DOD. As an organization, we recognize public safety extends beyond our facility walls. We encourage you to stay tuned for our next message, where we will highlight our Department of Community Programs, which provides community-based options for offender supervision, support and additional rehabilitative services.

Join the Broward Sheriff’s Office Department of Detention today and make a difference! Serve your community, build a meaningful career and help keep Broward County safe. DOD Deputy Cadets are eligible for a $5,000 hiring bonus. Visit sheriff.org to learn more about career opportunities with BSO.

Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony

Service Equals Reward

From my first day as sheriff, I made a promise the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) would keep Broward County safe while operating at the highest professional standards. That commitment led me to establish the Office of Inspector General (OIG) in 2021, embedding accountability and transparency into every aspect of BSO’s work. Upholding these high standards strengthens our organization, reinforces our integrity and makes our communities safer.

Through independent organizational oversight, the OIG strengthens our services through three divisions: Internal Affairs and Public Corruption, Policy and Accountability and Internal Audit. Staffed by both sworn and civilian professionals, these divisions work every day to ensure BSO operations are ethical, efficient and fiscally responsible.

The Division of Internal Affairs and Public Corruption investigates allegations of misconduct, including use of force and firearms discharge incidents, thoroughly and objectively. These investigations assess whether actions are consistent with BSO standards, ensuring personnel serve the public with integrity and professionalism. By conducting comprehensive, evidence-based reviews, the OIG identifies patterns of misconduct, recommends policy improvements and holds employees accountable when standards are not met. This oversight enhances operational effectiveness, reduces risk and ensures public safety operations are conducted efficiently, ethically and in a manner the community can rely on.

The Division of Policy and Accountability (DPA) establishes and maintains clear operational standards across BSO. Its Policy Unit routinely reviews and updates policies to align with state and federal laws, accreditation standards and community expectations, providing employees with clear guidance to perform their duties safely and professionally. Within the DPA, the Research Unit applies data-driven analysis to identify trends, enhance operations and guide resources where they will have the greatest impact on community safety.

Additional units within the DPA further support responsible operations and public confidence. The Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Compliance Unit ensures personnel are properly trained to use systems that contain sensitive information responsibly. While these systems provide deputies with real-time data to identify threats and protect the public, strict compliance requirements ensure that information is accessed, shared and safeguarded appropriately.

The Division of Internal Audit provides an additional layer of oversight. The division is responsible for conducting financial, operational and performance audits across the organization. Detailed reports with actionable findings and recommendations optimizes resource allocation while protecting taxpayer dollars.

The OIG plays a vital role in upholding integrity, accountability and transparency at BSO. Through oversight and collaboration, these divisions guide policy, support sound decision making and protect public resources, delivering reliable and trusted service to the residents and visitors of Broward County.

Visit sheriff.org to learn more about BSO’s Office of Inspector General, review the OIG Annual Report or discover opportunities to join our team.

Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

With more than 890 dedicated professionals, the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) Fire Rescue and Emergency Services (FRES) stands as one of the most comprehensive and skilled fire rescue organizations in the state. Our team provides fire suppression, fire protection, emergency medical services and critical public safety education to residents in eight Broward County municipalities, including unincorporated areas. We also proudly protect two of the region’s most vital transportation hubs: the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Port Everglades. In addition to emergency management preparedness, our specialized regional support assets ensure we are ready to respond to the most complex emergencies.

Every day, BSO’s FRES delivers high-quality, full-service fire and rescue support to residents and visitors of Broward County. Operating from 25 fire stations, BSO FRES responded to more than 60,000 countywide emergency incidents in FY 2024/2025. Supporting these efforts is BSO FR Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Staffed by highly skilled dual-certified firefighter paramedics, these Advanced Life Support companies carry a full complement of equipment and medications to deliver effective EMS support during critical calls for service.

FRES Regional Support Services encompasses highly specialized resources supporting all of Broward County, including Air Rescue, the Technical Rescue Team and the Hazardous Materials (Haz-Mat) Team. BSO’s Air Rescue helicopter, Air Rescue 85 (AR85), treats and transports critically injured and severely ill patients within and beyond Broward County, from the Florida Keys to Orlando. These specially trained professionals are experts in advanced airway interventions and whole blood administration, ensuring patients receive lifesaving care when minutes matter most. BSO was the first in Florida to offer this groundbreaking program, delivering whole blood in the field, giving trauma patients a greater chance at survival. Since its launch in 2020, BSO has averaged an approximate 80% survival rate for whole blood patients, making BSO a leader in pre-hospital trauma care.

BSO’s Technical Rescue Team (TRT) responds to extreme rescue situations, including building collapses and emergency shoring operations. TRT members must possess operational and technical certifications, participate in extensive training and demonstrate exceptional proficiency in special rescue operations. In addition, the BSO FRES also operates a Type 1 Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT) Team, the highest designation recognized by the State of Florida. These teams are designed to handle the most complex, large-scale incidents involving high-hazard or unknown materials. Equipped with the most sophisticated hazardous materials detection and response system available, BSO’s HAZMAT team has been instrumental in major disaster responses.

Preventing emergencies before they occur is equally important. The Fire Prevention Bureau provides essential fire and life safety services by enforcing adopted fire and life safety codes through inspections, public education and community outreach. BSO’s Fire and Life Safety Educators deliver valuable programs to the community that include various aspects of life safety, including hands-only CPR, child safety seat installations and inspections, bleeding control and safe driving initiatives. In 2025, more than 40,000 residents participated in these educational workshops, building safer, more informed communities throughout Broward County.

Our organization’s commitment extends to every aspect of fire rescue and public safety. BSO FRES also oversees the Office of Emergency Management (OEM), whose focus is to strengthen the organization’s overall preparedness through planning, readiness operations, training, outreach and administration. In 2025, OEM facilitated and participated in hands-on, real-world exercises addressing infectious diseases, hurricanes, radiological emergencies and aviation incidents with hospitals, schools and local government partners. OEM personnel were also deployed to New Mexico for flood response and to Taylor County, Florida, following Hurricane Helene, providing direct assistance to communities in need.

Across the county and beyond, BSO’s FRES remains steadfast in its mission to protect lives and deliver exceptional service during every call. From routine emergencies to the most complex disasters, our experienced and dedicated team stands prepared and ready to serve.

Visit sheriff.org to learn more about BSO, our Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services or opportunities to join our team.

Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

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

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
            

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

Technology plays a crucial role in safeguarding our community. To stay ahead, the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) continuously adopts innovative technological solutions to deliver the highest level of public safety services to Broward County. A recent example is the arrest of 12 students by our Threat Management Unit (TMU) at the start of the school year for making online threats. Using real-time social media monitoring, the TMU swiftly identified, investigated and neutralized the threats, demonstrating the effectiveness of their advanced systems.

While this illustrates how technology enhances our ability to protect the community, BSO's proactive and evolving use of technology extends well beyond threat detection and response—it's a pivotal part of our organizational strategy. We consistently research and implement advanced tools to strengthen our overall response capabilities and safeguard our county. A few examples are highlighted below.
 

• The BSO Digital Forensics Unit has significantly boosted its technological capabilities by increasing storage capacity and accelerating data transfer, which speeds up processing time and allows our investigators to examine multiple devices simultaneously. These upgrades, alongside the unit's expansion, have resulted in substantial time savings, improved efficiency and successful results in solving cases with critical digital information.

• The BSO Training Division is testing cutting-edge virtual reality (VR) systems to further augment our law enforcement training. This advanced technology allows for simultaneous training capabilities utilizing diverse scenarios, from de-escalation tactics to active shooter responses. It also supports the integration of detailed building plans, allowing deputies to train in specific environments, such as schools or courthouses. These VR systems will save time and reduce costs by allowing more frequent and efficient training sessions, with the added benefit of video review for post-training analysis. A significant portion of the funding for these systems was secured through grants, and we anticipate rolling out introductory training in early 2025.

• The BSO Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) has incorporated new technology, including facial recognition and license plate reader software, to investigate, solve and prevent crimes. Recent technology upgrades have enhanced BSO's ability to identify vehicles and link them to suspects, victims or crimes and better utilize mobile cameras strategically deployed in crime hotspots.

• The BSO Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services has adopted the GlideScope, an advanced tool that uses video to help guide intubation. This technology provides our firefighter/paramedics with a clear view of a patient's airway, significantly improving the success of securing an airway on the first attempt, which can be lifesaving in critical situations. As of today, we have 22 GlideScopes in use across the county.

• The BSO Crime Lab has made significant technological improvements to its investigative capabilities. One such advancement is Y-STR technology, which isolates DNA to identify suspects. It also enables familial searching within the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), providing leads in cases where traditional DNA analysis may fall short. The Crime Lab also uses the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN), a national database that allows us to compare fired cartridge cases and identify potential connections to other crimes.

 As public safety needs evolve, BSO remains dedicated to implementing cutting-edge technologies that enhance our ability to identify, track, monitor and prevent crime. We will continue to expand our use of innovative tools to uphold our commitment to excellence in service.

Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

In the coming weeks, cities and counties throughout Florida will enact new ordinances to remove homeless persons from public parks, streets and buildings. These ordinances are in response to a state law, HB 1365, that made it illegal to camp or sleep in public spaces and placed the burden on cities and counties to enforce the new law or face legal consequences from the state attorney general and citizen-initiated lawsuits. 

Some municipal leaders have already called for the arrest and jailing of homeless individuals who refuse to go to a shelter or accept assistance. However, homelessness is not a crime, and the county jail system is not a solution to the homeless crisis. Telling residents that placing a homeless person in jail will allow them to receive mental health and substance abuse treatment is not reality-based or a feasible option. Furthermore, the Broward County jails are currently understaffed and underfunded. Jail is not the place to shelter and provide services to the homeless, and I have directed our Department of Detention to no longer accept individuals who are brought to the jail for purely municipal ordinance violations. So, rounding up the homeless and bringing them to the jails in downtown Fort Lauderdale or Pompano Beach is neither a good solution nor an available one. 

One of the significant problems Broward County faces is the lack of sufficient shelter space for the county's homeless population. Under the new law, if a county does not have enough bed space, it may designate a suitable location for homeless individuals to camp that meets their public safety and sanitation needs. Our county officials are working with local homeless advocates and municipalities to determine where and what type of camping facilities will be designated. Many Broward cities have already created local options for their homeless populations, including temporary housing, community-based shelters and housing assistance to keep the homeless, especially families and veterans, in safe shelter and off the streets. Community courts have also been established to prevent homeless individuals from becoming entangled in the criminal justice system.

The Broward Sheriff's Office will continue to do its part through our Homeless Outreach Teams, whose mission is outreach assistance, service provider referrals and reunification. Through the cooperation of the county and the municipal governments, we hope more housing and referral options will be created that BSO and local law enforcement will be able to utilize, ensuring that arrests remain a last resort and occur only in exigent circumstances. These efforts must continue as policymakers craft a more permanent solution for homelessness that addresses affordable housing, mental health and substance abuse treatment.

The new law has achieved one positive outcome—it has placed needed urgency on finding real solutions to homelessness in Broward County. Other cities and counties across the country have successfully met the challenge of homelessness, and I am confident that our county and city leaders will also find solutions. Homelessness in our community did not start overnight, nor will the solutions be quick or easy. Arrest and jail are not affordable options for this community, and they do not serve the needs of homeless individuals. We can do better.

Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

In early 2020, while driving home, I came across a car that failed to move after the traffic light turned green. Despite the honking of other drivers and myself, the vehicle remained stationary. Recognizing a potential emergency, I acted quickly.

Inside the car, I found the driver slumped over, unresponsive and without a pulse. Without hesitation, I pulled him from the vehicle and performed CPR until his vital signs returned. Thanks to the prompt arrival of emergency medical services, the man was transported to a local hospital and eventually made a full recovery.

Though my actions were later acknowledged by the media and my colleagues at the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO), my motivation was never about recognition. What truly mattered was being there when it counted and doing everything possible to help someone in need. This selfless approach to public service is what I believe should guide all our actions as first responders.

This experience epitomizes my personal ethos: Service Equals Reward. For decades, this principle has shaped every decision I've made and has become the guiding motto at BSO. Service Equals Reward emphasizes the intrinsic value of public service, focusing on the positive impact we make on the people we safeguard rather than on material gains.

Every team member at BSO plays a crucial role in serving our community. From the deputies and firefighters on the front lines to the administrative staff working behind the scenes, each person's contribution is vital. Our collective efforts ensure the safety and well-being of those we protect. Our true reward comes from being leaders in public safety, dedicating ourselves to the greater good, and making a lasting impact on our community for the next 100 years.

As sheriff, I will continue to lead with this mindset. At BSO, service is not just a job but a way of life—a commitment to always do what is right. Our service, actions and contributions to the community are the true measures of our success. Together, we can create a community where everyone feels safe, valued and supported.

Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

​Serving as your sheriff is a great honor and a tremendous responsibility. Since taking command in 2019, the over 5,500 men and women of the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) have worked tirelessly to bring the best public safety services to our county. We have implemented significant reforms, enhanced operational efficiency, forged stronger community connections and prioritized accountability and transparency, establishing ourselves as national leaders in public safety.

Following the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, our primary goal has been to enhance training for all first responders. Today, our deputies participate in a rigorous training curriculum, including annual in-service training, patrol rifle proficiency development, active assailant response, Tactical Combat Casualty Care, Incident Command System exercises and dedicated supervisor instruction for critical incident/scene management. Our new Research, Development and Training Center (R.D.T.C.) will further enhance these training initiatives, ensuring our first responders are well-prepared for any scenario and equipped to tackle emerging public safety challenges.

It was also imperative that we restore public trust in our organization. We implemented measures to hold employees accountable and enhance transparency in misconduct investigations and use of force incidents. We reorganized our Professional Standards Committee (PSC) to be more reflective of our community, selecting qualified individuals who are well-versed in labor law, internal affairs investigations and human resources to better evaluate incidents of wrongdoing. Additionally, we proactively engage with the community to address unique concerns through initiatives like the Social Justice Task Force (SJTF), which comprises community activists, faith leaders and stakeholders. The SJTF aims to address community concerns and enhance transparency, communication and accountability while building stronger relationships between law enforcement and the community.

Innovative outreach efforts, reminiscent of traditional community policing practices, have strengthened our relationships with the community. Programs such as the Neighborhood Support Team (NST) and Park, Walk and Talk (PWT) foster personal connections between BSO and the people we serve. We are connecting with our residents where they live and sharing important public safety messages. In 2023, NST distributed nearly 100,000 resource materials and participated in over 510 community events, while PWT facilitated nearly 38,000 personal community interactions.

Understanding that learning never stops, we've prioritized continuing education. We've teamed up with universities to offer employees the opportunity to expand their knowledge of public safety through advanced degree programs, such as public administration. These educational programs help develop essential critical thinking and decision-making skills, leading to a more knowledgeable and responsible approach to public safety.

All these achievements, along with many other successes of my administration, were made possible by BSO's dedicated men and women. This organization is made up of hardworking individuals who are committed to making a positive impact through public service. I also want to express my gratitude to our residents. During my time at BSO, I've met many individuals who are passionate about doing what's right for the betterment of their neighbors. These interactions have deepened my understanding of neighborhood issues and the challenges facing our community, significantly shaping my leadership approach. As a result, I am better equipped to guide BSO toward a successful and progressive future.

We've made great strides toward becoming one of the best-trained, most progressive, accountable public safety organizations in the state. There's still so much to achieve, and I look forward to what we will continue to accomplish together.

Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

I've always kept a vision board listing my goals. Even as a boy living in a tiny rowhouse in the Philadelphia projects, I was preparing to achieve my dreams. I knew I didn't need to do everything; I only needed to do the next thing. Through planning and preparation, I became the first member of my family to graduate high school and then college. I soon joined law enforcement and, with greater planning, rose through the ranks to become the Coral Springs Police Department's first black sergeant. During my time with the department, I served in various capacities and received more than a dozen awards and letters of commendation.

Recognizing societal needs, I briefly stepped away from police work. I founded a company that trained the private and public sectors in preventative strategies and response for active shooter and mass casualty incidents. When the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) needed someone to correct deficiencies following the tragic events at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, I accepted the opportunity to lead BSO, putting my expertise in active shooter training and readiness to work. In doing so, I also became the first black sheriff in the organization's 109-year history – a privilege I don't take lightly. 

Each achievement, each step forward, was fueled by my commitment to excellence. Today, my vision board is filled with initiatives to enhance every aspect of BSO, from training and accountability to community relations and technology. These initiatives are reinforced by every member of our organization and serve to foster unity, encourage progression and uphold our core mission of protecting Broward County.

One of our most impactful initiatives is leveraging technology to proactively combat crime. The Threat Management Unit (TMU) and Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) detect and prevent potential threats from harming our community. Since its inception, the TMU has investigated more than 4,230 potentially violent incidents, resulting in more than 300 arrests. In addition, the RTCC has provided live surveillance during more than 5,600 investigations. As the RTCC undergoes expansion, it reinforces our commitment to providing excellence in service.

Transparency and accountability are fundamental to building trust with the people we serve. I've reorganized the Professional Standards Committee to include diverse voices and established the Use of Force Review Board to ensure fair evaluation and compliance with BSO policies. In addition, our annual report demonstrates our commitment to transparency, showcasing how taxpayer dollars are allocated for public safety.

Our efforts to enhance relationships and build trust in our communities are proving successful. Programs like our Neighborhood Support Team (NST) and Park, Walk and Talk (PWT) facilitate personal interactions beyond routine calls for service to enhance understanding and address community needs. Since the inception of the PWT in 2019, we've had more than 130,000 interactions with residents across Broward County.

Encouraging diversity has been one of the primary goals of my administration. We have looked to reinforce our agency with recruitment and promotional opportunities for those most qualified. The result has been an organization that better reflects the diverse communities we serve. As sheriff, I've had the honor of promoting more than 1,300 employees, and we have filled nearly 2,100 positions throughout the organization. This commitment has been a critical factor in our operational success as valuable institutional knowledge has been applied to the development of various programs and initiatives.

Every step we take, however big, creates a significant, lasting imprint on this community. I'm proud of our progress in strengthening public safety, yet I am mindful of the work still to come. Just as my vision board is ever-evolving, so is BSO's. 

Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

As public safety professionals, we understand the protection of our community hinges on the expertise, preparedness and dedication of our first responders. I've prioritized training, with the cornerstone being our state-of-the-art Research, Development and Training Center (RDTC), set to open its doors in early summer.

The RDTC is a significant milestone in the 109-year history of the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO), consolidating our training efforts under one roof. Centralizing our training operations will allow us to promote unified coordination and understanding among different departments and disciplines within our organization. Moreover, the RDTC will be a hub for fostering professional relationships with local and federal public safety partners. We will welcome our neighboring partners for multi-agency training and strengthen our collective commitment to serving Broward County.

Every aspect of the RDTC is specifically built to enhance the preparedness of our first responders. The facility features specialized training rooms, simulation labs and tactical firing ranges designed to replicate real-world scenarios and hone critical decision-making skills and tactical readiness. Key components of the RDTC include:

• Two 50-yard tactical firing ranges featuring bay doors for vehicle entry, enabling realistic vehicle takedowns and active shooter drills.
• A two-story shoot house offering flexible configurations for various unique scenarios, including inmate extractions.
• A defensive tactics room that will allow our first responders to train in hands-on techniques to help de-escalate potential use of force incidents.
• EMS and simulation labs, which will enhance the readiness and medical skills of our firefighter/paramedics for emergency response.
• A rappelling wall for our fire rescue personnel, preparing them for structural fires or multi-story building rescues.
• A 22,000-square-foot strength and conditioning facility dedicated to keeping our employees' mental and physical health at its peak. My goal is to introduce comprehensive fitness programs to meet the needs of everyone at BSO.
• Three large configurable classrooms to accommodate our employees' ongoing educational and professional development.

 
While the RDTC represents innovation and progress, our mission remains steadfast: the safety and well-being of the entire Broward County community. As sheriff, I am committed to introducing new and innovative programs and initiatives focused on upholding the highest standards of excellence in public safety.

Sheriff Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

Shortly after becoming sheriff, I introduced the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) Pillars, six initiatives designed to enhance our ability to protect and serve the community. These pillars outlined BSO's vision to establish one of the nation's most progressive, transparent and efficient public safety organizations. Most importantly, each was created with a focus to ensure the safety of every Broward County resident. I am excited to share with you the progress we've made so far:

School Safety and Technology
BSO remains committed to prioritizing the safety of our students. Equipped with cutting-edge technology, our Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) continues identifying and investigating potential threats to our community and schools. With access to nearly 25,000 cameras in public schools, houses of worship and county facilities, the RTCC has assisted in investigating over 5,600 incidents, which led to 117 arrests. Our efforts have proven successful, and in the coming months, the RTCC will expand to include additional staff, upgraded technology and more space for partner agencies.

Also integral to school safety is BSO's robust Incident Command System (ICS) training, ensuring all personnel are ready to act if a critical incident occurs. Further, all deputies receive ongoing active assailant training to enhance their preparedness.

Serving the Broward Community
Fostering genuine relationships with our residents is vital. Initiatives such as our Park, Walk and Talk (PWT) program and the Neighborhood Support Team (NST) have facilitated great community trust. In the past year, our deputies had more than 38,000 community encounters through PWT, and NST distributed over 100,000 important public safety materials.

BSO's Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services also takes community education to the next level. Employing a second-to-none public education program, our dedicated team of Life Safety Educators teaches hands-only CPR and bleeding control courses, critical skills in a lifesaving emergency. They also offer free car seat installations and inspections and help educate parents and caregivers on child passenger safety.

Last year, I formed a committee to draft a comprehensive plan for BSO, leading us to a sustainable, progressive and innovative future. As we move forward, our 2024-2028 strategic plan will continue to bolster our community engagement efforts, focusing on strengthening community relationships, optimizing resource allocation and expanding the availability of online educational platforms for the public.

Training and Preparedness
In the coming months, we will open the doors to BSO's first-ever Research, Development and Training Center (RDTC), a 104,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility. Every aspect of the RDTC will elevate our preparedness. Two 50-yard tactical firing ranges will allow for vehicle entry to replicate vehicle takedowns and active shooter scenarios, and a shoot house will be outfitted with reconfigurable panels to host a myriad of real-world training experiences. The RDTC will consolidate training efforts, enhance communication among BSO departments and foster collaboration with neighboring municipalities, ensuring seamless public safety operations throughout Broward County.

Promoting from Within 
Over the past five years, we've promoted more than 1,300 employees. Our emphasis on education and leadership development courses have aided these promotions. We have also expanded academic partnerships, providing opportunities for greater professional growth. A forthcoming career track will establish employee benchmarks and provide avenues for advancement.

Recruitment
Strategic recruitment efforts have filled more than 2,000 needed positions throughout the organization. We reduced our communication center vacancy rate from 24 percent to zero. We focus our recruitment efforts on qualified individuals interested in serving the community and emphasize the inherent rewards of a public safety career. BSO is committed to innovative initiatives to continue attracting top talent.

Accountability and Transparency
BSO remains a beacon of accountability and transparency, exemplified by our actions. The men and women who work for this organization are held to the highest standards. Our Office of Inspector General, created in 2021, continues to ensure our organization runs efficiently, economically and responsibly. BSO also publishes an annual report to provide a greater understanding of how tax dollars are spent in service to protect and serve the Broward County community. To read the latest report, visit Sheriff's Initiatives.

BSO will continue to drive forward, focusing on these foundational pillars of success. We remain dedicated to sustainable growth and excellence in service, embodying a purpose-driven, service-oriented approach to public safety.

Sheriff Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

When I assumed command of the Broward Sheriff's Office in 2019, I assembled the most qualified and talented team of individuals at every level of the organization. It was one of my best decisions as sheriff. These accomplished men and women have been instrumental in achieving my vision for BSO—Excellence in Service. We have prioritized public safety and established ourselves as a respected organization our residents can trust, and fellow public safety professionals can emulate.

In 2022, we embarked on a countywide survey, a collective effort to gauge residents' priorities regarding BSO's initiatives. The insights from this survey led me to convene a strategic planning committee comprised of a diverse group of professionals from each discipline within the organization. This collaborative group was instrumental in evaluating our organizational standing and exploring growth opportunities. The result yielded a comprehensive plan emphasizing public safety and community well-being.

The BSO Strategic Plan identifies five key objectives for the next four years, providing a clear trajectory for our organization to remain at the forefront of public safety. Here are some of the highlights:

• Innovation and Sustainability – We will streamline resources and enhance interdepartmental collaboration to remain responsive to community needs. Notably, we will work with the county to implement a single public safety answering point (PSAP) to consolidate 911 communications operations and dispatch resources to unify operations and more effectively and efficiently deliver services.
• Effectiveness and Resilience – Our organization aims to continuously improve operations, enhance our capacity to address public safety concerns and deliver exceptional service to the community. We continually assess and reimagine our programs to create a safer, more inclusive society. We strive to improve internal and external communication by leveraging technology and community partnerships, ensuring we are always one step ahead in our mission to protect and serve you.
• Community Engagement – Establishing meaningful community ties is crucial to our public safety mission. We will continue to optimize resources to foster sustainable connections and ensure easy access to essential public safety information through online educational platforms.
• Leadership and Professional Development – We prioritize the professional development of our employees. We encourage higher education to enhance critical thinking and decision-making skills, enriching our approach to public safety. We will continue to invest in systems and partner with institutions that provide employees with career advancement opportunities.
• Behavioral and Physical Health – Safeguarding the well-being of our employees and the community is paramount. We are committed to taking all necessary measures to ensure our first responders are physically and mentally fit to respond efficiently and effectively to any situation. In addition, we will work to enhance our organization's early intervention program, enabling us to better reach individuals suffering stress and emotional challenges from the job and provide them with the help they need in a safe and confidential environment.
  
  These efforts represent only a fraction of the exciting new initiatives outlined in our 2024-2028 Strategic Plan. I invite you to visit the Sheriff's Initiatives to explore all the developments at BSO focused on enhancing community safety and connectivity.
  
  
  Sheriff Gregory Tony
  
  Service Equals Reward

​In 1929, Sara Freeman was hired as a bookkeeper at the Broward Sheriff's Office with an annual salary of $1,800. Her initial duties involved recording and organizing the agency's financial data. Sara eventually became the jail matron, monitoring female inmates at the Broward jail. These subsequent duties led to Sara becoming BSO's first female deputy. Deputy Freeman retired in 1946, but the legacy she left behind created opportunities for women to hold positions of power in public safety that are echoed throughout BSO today.

The representation of women in command positions has been a process. It has not always been easy, fair or fast. As sheriff, I have prioritized inclusion, fairness and equality as central tenets of our organization. When I assumed command of BSO in 2019, female representation was void at the highest ranks. Today, nearly 40 percent of our organization is comprised of women, each creating their own accomplished history and positively influencing future generations of public safety professionals. Throughout BSO, women now occupy leadership positions at the highest levels of decision and policy making—as undersheriff, chief of staff, colonels, majors, captains, fire rescue chiefs and directors.

In the spirit of our first female deputy, I want to highlight a few exceptional female firsts promoted during my administration.

Undersheriff Nichole Anderson has achieved many firsts, shattering numerous glass ceilings in her path. In 2011, she became the first Black female chief to head a district command; in 2017, she became the first Black female promoted to major; and in 2019, she became the first to attain the rank of colonel. Later that year, Colonel Anderson made history again when she became the first Black and first woman undersheriff in BSO's history. I promoted her because of her tremendous qualifications, work ethic and leadership. I consider her promotion one of my best decisions as sheriff.

When Samantha Whitehorne initially pursued a career in the fire service, she was met with resistance. She was told no one would hire her because she was Black and a woman. Samantha took this as motivation and began her journey, earning every promotion and breaking all barriers. She became the first Black female firefighter at Deerfield Beach Fire Rescue in 2000 before the department merged with BSO. She rose to the rank of lieutenant in 2006. In 2017, she began teaching and training emergency medical workers at Broward College. In 2022, I was proud to promote Samantha to district chief in Deerfield Beach, marking the first time a Black female would hold this position.

I am equally proud of Stephanie Jacobi's recent promotion to captain over our Special Patrol Division, which includes SWAT, the Aviation Unit, Marine Patrol and the K-9 Unit. She is the first woman to serve in this capacity. Captain Jacobi is an 18-year BSO veteran who has served in many critical roles, including as a property and violent crimes detective and hostage negotiator. She credits female mentors throughout her career for showing her what it takes to succeed. She hopes to do the same for other young women.

Dr. Debra White also has a long history with BSO. She began her career as a detention deputy in 1984. Soon after, Dr. White graduated from the police academy in 1990 and became a road patrol deputy and a school resource officer. After a decorated law enforcement career, she retired in 2015, until I encouraged her to return to BSO to share her talents once again. Now, she puts faith first, serving as our organization's first female chaplain services manager.

These are just a few of the many incredible women of BSO who are trailblazers and role models for the leaders of tomorrow. I am honored to work alongside them. Their service and dedication to keeping our communities safe are a true inspiration.

Sheriff Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

No one event had a more profound impact on the Broward Sheriff's Office than the tragic shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas (MSD) High School on February 14, 2018. The loss of 17 innocent lives at the Parkland school is the reason I arrived at BSO, with the vow that we would do everything in our power to ensure that what occurred that day would never happen again. Today, we are better trained and more prepared, leveraging technology, utilizing resources and consistently readying our first responders to protect our schools.

In 2019, I created the Threat Management Unit (TMU) and Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) to proactively investigate potential threats to our schools and the community. Since then, the TMU has investigated approximately 4,230 potentially violent incidents, resulting in more than 300 arrests. One of those arrests was a teenager who threatened to carry out a mass shooting at MSD in 2021. With access to nearly 18,000 school cameras across Broward County, the RTCC provides live intelligence during investigations and helps direct first responders in real time during an incident. The RTCC is expanding significantly, increasing its space and staffing and enhancing our investigative capabilities.

As an expert in active shooter training and response, I saw improving the training standards for all our first responders as an immediate priority. Today, we train to respond to any incident, regardless of size or scale. All our first responders, including our school resource officers, participate in annual active assailant training with our Tactical Training Unit. The 13-person unit, which includes our most skilled and tactically trained deputies, provides the highest level of proficiency training to sworn personnel throughout the organization.

Our Incident Command System training ensures all personnel, regardless of rank or role, understand their responsibilities and the overall structure of critical incident response and emergency management principles, which are crucial to effectively handling critical incidents. BSO command staff participate in key operational scenarios such as establishing command posts, implementing staging areas, managing crisis communications, coordinating resources, and integrating multi-agency responses under a unified command. These extensive trainings prepare us to respond to and effectively manage emergencies. BSO is committed to continuously incorporating real-life scenarios into our training regimen to maintain operational readiness.

To enhance operational efficiency and ensure every incident is handled as expeditiously as possible, we unified our Training Division and Special Operations Bureau to form our Department of Preparedness and Response. A highlight of this new department is the Threat Intervention Tactics Analytics Network (T.I.T.A.N.). This intelligence-led policing unit works to stop terrorist acts or threats of violence. A feature of T.I.T.A.N is our organization's first full-time SWAT team, which provides high visibility and security to various critical infrastructure in the county, such as our airport and seaport. The team is also ready for immediate deployment in the event of a mass casualty incident.

The pinnacle of our commitment to protect our schools and our entire community will be our state-of-the-art Research, Development, and Training Center (RDTC), which will open later this year. The RDTC will house all our training efforts under one roof, allowing for greater preparedness, multi-departmental and jurisdictional training and streamlined resources.

A two-story memorial will grace the walls of the RDTC's main entrance. Etched into it will be the 17 names of the lives lost during the MSD shooting. The building is dedicated to these victims and serves as a continual reminder of our ultimate purpose: We train in their memory. We prepare to prevent further tragedies. We will never forget them and why we made significant changes to our organization to protect our schools and children.

Sheriff Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

This year is shaping up to be an exciting one for the Broward Sheriff's Office. As we continue to provide the highest level of public safety services to Broward County, we're thrilled to welcome the new year with some compelling initiatives on the horizon. We are launching a comprehensive strategic plan aimed at effectively addressing and overcoming challenges related to the safety and well-being of our community. Our state-of-the-art training facility will open, allowing for expanded training opportunities and increased educational opportunities for our employees. In addition, we plan to further enhance our innovative crime-fighting units. Our direction is part of our blueprint to remain at the forefront as a progressive and effective public safety organization.

PLANNING FOR THE FUTURE
This year, we will implement our four-year strategic plan, which will help us proactively address the public safety challenges of tomorrow. A committee of BSO employees across the organization formulated the plan. Working together, we looked at areas of our organization to strengthen, processes to consolidate for a more efficient workflow and opportunities to support the mission of safeguarding our community. I look forward to sharing more about this plan in the coming months.

RAISING TRAINING TO NEW LEVELS
BSO's Research, Development and Training Center (RDTC) will be the cornerstone of our organization's commitment to preparedness. The facility is the first dedicated onsite training center in our organization's 109-year history. It will elevate our preparedness, enhance our public safety services and consolidate all BSO's training under one roof. The center will include classrooms, simulation labs, tactical firing ranges with vehicle access, simulated scenario ranges and a cutting-edge wellness center. 

The BSO Training Division is also in ongoing talks with several educational institutions to offer additional employee development programs at the RDTC. These courses will focus on personal, supervisory and executive leadership. The skills learned will help employees as they progress through their careers at BSO.

HIGHER LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
Our commitment to education will continue. It's a challenge I take personally. In 2024, I will complete my Ph.D. in criminal justice and organizational leadership. Yet, this thirst for learning is not mine alone. Educational advancement is now part of the spirit of our organization. Through partnerships with Nova Southeastern University and Lynn University, we offer employees degree programs that teach social responsibility and civic engagement, ultimately imparting a better understanding of public service. These programs not only help instill our staff with the skills and knowledge to best serve our communities, but they also aid our deputies in achieving a level of formal education not traditionally sought after in a law enforcement career. We are proud to see these programs inspiring and empowering employees to achieve their educational goals. 

FORENSIC TECHNOLOGY RECEIVES A MAJOR UPGRADE
Our Digital Forensic Unit analyzes and investigates potential evidence from electronic devices. This unit is responsible for processing nearly 1,800 pieces of evidence a year and helps solve significant crimes, including homicide, sexual abuse, child abuse and many others. In 2024, new state funding will provide an opportunity to upgrade vital equipment to better review evidentiary items. An innovative review platform will also be acquired to share valuable information more easily with other agencies.

PROACTIVE POLICING GETS A BOOST
Our Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) utilizes technology to proactively stop crime and aid our first responders as incidents occur. Due to their continued success, we have secured state funds for a significant expansion, allowing additional space and personnel for partner agencies to join our investigative intelligence operations. Accompanying this expansion will be further upgrades in technology. With access to more than 18,000 cameras, the team has provided live intelligence during more than 5,600 incidents.

As an organization, we are heading into 2024 with a firm plan for success. The future looks brighter than ever.  

Sheriff Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

The Broward Sheriff's Office has recently garnered national and international recognition for exceptional performance across all aspects of our public safety operations. These awards and accolades indeed boost our morale but, more importantly, exemplify our organization's commitment to excellence in service. 

HEROISM: This past year, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) presented BSO SWAT operators with one of its highest honors: The FBI Shield of Bravery. These highly trained tactical operators pulled two FBI agents from the line of fire. Though the agents tragically sustained fatal injuries, the SWAT operators performed remarkably in the face of grave danger to save their lives. The award they received is rarely issued and is bestowed only for acts of exceptional heroism, well above the call of duty. The award is an unwavering testament to our training and preparedness. Seeing these dedicated first responders receive this supreme honor was one of my proudest moments as sheriff.

INTELLIGENCE: Proactive, intelligence-led policing safeguards our communities by discovering and stopping illicit activities before they escalate. The BSO Gang Investigations Task Force has been at the forefront of these strategic efforts, significantly reducing crime throughout Broward County. Their efforts earned them distinguished recognition as the Gang Unit of the Year by the Florida Gang Investigators Association.

PUBLIC SAFETY: The BSO Aviation Unit garnered recognition from the International Association of Chiefs of Police with the Leadership in Police Aviation Award and two awards for their use of tactical airborne forward-looking infrared (FLIR) cameras to aid in the success of their missions. This team of highly trained, experienced professionals was also honored within our organization as BSOs Unit of the Year for the Department of Preparedness and Response.

ACCOUNTABILITY: Every accolade we receive demonstrates the significant progress our organization is making. BSO Sergeant Eric Girado was recognized as Investigator of the Year by the Florida Internal Affairs Investigator Association. Sgt. Girado's recognition is a strong endorsement of our commitment to responsible, transparent policing of ourselves. Since day one, my administration has focused on maintaining the highest standards of accountability, ensuring any allegations of misconduct are investigated fairly, thoroughly and objectively. 

COMMUNITY: BSO's Neighborhood Support Team received well-deserved recognition as the Outstanding Crime Prevention Unit of the Year by the Florida Crime Prevention Association. The community initiatives launched by this exceptional team have helped at-risk youth, supported life skills and job training, and assisted our most vulnerable residents. The Neighborhood Support Team continues to build trust and respect with all our communities while keeping them informed on important public safety matters.

ADVANCED LIFE SUPPORT: Recently, Dr. James Roach received the State Medical Director of the Year Award from the Florida Department of Health. The Raymond H. Alexander - EMS Medical Director Award is a prestigious honor and testament to Dr. Roach's outstanding contributions to BSO's emergency medical services. Additionally, the BSO Fire Rescue and Emergency Services Advanced Life Support (ALS) Team is standing out in the industry, placing first in two major ALS competitions: the Fire Rescue East ALS Competition and ClinCon. The contests place the team in multiple scenarios to test their medical and protocol knowledge, skills, critical thinking and decision-making abilities. These victories highlight the team's commitment to being the very best in EMS response. 

PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS: Our efforts to communicate with and inform our community of critical public safety matters extend to a variety of digital mediums. This year, our Community Affairs Division and Public Information Office won three Telly Awards, a premier award honoring excellence in video and television productions. The videos awarded highlight important public safety information and, in one instance, assisted the BSO Cold Case Unit in highlighting a decades-old unsolved homicide case. 

The achievements highlighted here share a common purpose — all are a product of our promise and commitment to be the most progressive, innovative, service-oriented public safety organization in Broward County. We are proud of each of these distinguished honors and will continue to push forward with the same vigor to reach even higher levels of performance and accomplishment. 

Sheriff Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

An innovative BSO crisis response pilot program has been changing lives, ensuring the safety and well-being of our community and setting a new standard for effective mental health support.

Launched last year in Deerfield Beach, the BSO Co-responder Program pairs a licensed mental health clinician with a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) trained deputy. When a call for service involving a mental health crisis comes in, the team promptly responds to the scene together. The team further conducts follow-up wellness checks with individuals and their families who have recently experienced a mental health crisis, providing guidance, support and assistance with referrals for behavioral health services.

This combination of proficiencies enables us to provide enhanced de-escalation assistance and connect individuals with community-based social services and mental health treatment. When appropriate, we can divert individuals from the criminal justice system, ensuring they receive the care they need. We further provide deputies on patrol with timely and easily accessible clinical expertise as they encounter individuals with varied symptoms of behavioral health deterioration. This approach is built on the belief that helping individuals experiencing mental health crises benefits them and our entire community.

The results we have achieved over the past year have been remarkable. The positive outcomes include:

• Reduced arrests: By addressing the root causes of mental health crises, we have seen fewer arrests related to these situations.
• Diversion from the criminal justice system: Our efforts are diverting individuals from unnecessary involvement in the criminal justice system, allowing them to receive the help they need.
• Significant increase in mental health referrals: We have substantially increased referrals to mental health services, ensuring individuals receive ongoing support.
• Reduced repeat encounters: By providing comprehensive support, we reduce the likelihood of repeat crises.
• Putting de-escalation into practice: In 100% of the co-responder's direct contacts with individuals in crisis, de-escalation techniques have been utilized to facilitate cooperation and preserve the dignity of all involved. 
• Zero use of force: We are proud to report that this approach has resulted in zero instances requiring the use of force.

 
Daniel Gelpi is a licensed therapist assigned to the Co-responder Program. When he joined the sheriff's office in August 2022, he brought 25 years of mental health care experience. Working alongside Deputy Marcus Hall, a deputy in our Homeless Outreach Team, he immediately saw the benefits of this unique pairing. This method allows Daniel to provide quicker response and intervention for calls in progress compared to previous positions. Furthermore, he can engage in constructive discussions, allowing him to better connect with individuals who may otherwise be hesitant to seek behavioral health support.

"The value of this program is immeasurable," says Daniel. "Using the Co-Responder Model, law enforcement and mental health professionals are better serving the community."

Since its launch in Deerfield Beach, the program moved to Dania Beach for several months and is now being utilized in Cooper City. The idea is to move it around the county to gather data and information from a cross-section of the community to streamline and improve operations. As we continue to witness the positive impact of this program, we are eager to expand its reach and extend its benefits to even more members of our community. 

Together, we are establishing a standard for empathetic crisis response that places the needs of our community members at the forefront.

Sheriff Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

Investing in our community is paramount to public safety.

Children's Harbor is a non-profit organization that serves as a home for kids without a family and keeps foster siblings together. While caring for these at-risk youth, this organization also guides them toward independence, building academic success, life skills and confidence through mentorship programs. The foundational values of Children's Harbor are aligned with our own at the Broward Sheriff's Office, and we are honored to have a small hand in their success.

I am proud to say through our Law Enforcement Trust Fund (LETF) Program, BSO supports Children's Harbor and many community organizations like it. We choose these local non-profits on the merit of their mission to improve the lives of Broward County residents. The money we award comes from the seizure and forfeiture of contraband used in the commission of a crime. State law allows us to use these funds to reinvest into charitable 501(c)3 organizations that benefit our community. 

Under my administration, the LETF selection process has been elevated to become a fair and impartial process. All qualified organizations have the same opportunity to compete for funding, and funds are distributed equitably. This year, we had the great privilege of investing nearly $900,000 back into the community by funding 88 different programs for selected non-profit organizations. 

As an agency, we understand community stability is a core variable of public safety. We must identify gaps and service needs within our community and connect our resources with organizations that can serve as a force multiplier to have a greater impact throughout Broward County. Whether it's connecting with youth, providing crime prevention programming, mentorship opportunities, mental health assistance, veteran services, or academic development, we are committed to utilizing these LETF funds in a way that supports a thriving and prosperous community. 

We will continue to evaluate and select new organizations whose mission is focused on the betterment of Broward County. To determine if your charitable organization is eligible to receive LETF funds or to learn more about the process, please visit sheriff.org or email LETF@sheriff.org.

Congratulations to this year's LETF recipients! 

Sheriff Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

​Do you know who your children are talking to online? A new cyber-criminal enterprise is on the rise, inflicting emotional anguish and financial damage on victims. 

Sextortion is a cybercrime where predators use social media networks, apps or gaming platforms to establish contact and build relationships with their victims. Posing as a teen, the predator pretends to spark romantic interest the victim, who is often a teen themselves, and manipulates them into sharing explicit photographs or videos. The new "friend" then threatens to expose them and share these photos with their family and friends unless they send money. 

Unlike traditional sextortion, where predators blackmail victims into providing additional sexual images, financial sextortion involves blackmailing the victim into sending them money. Despite the amount the victim pays, it is never enough, and the criminal's scheme continues. 

Sextortion can affect anyone; however, predators mainly target young boys between the ages of 14-17. According to the South Florida Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Commander, Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) Sergeant Thomas McInerney, "Teenage boys are particularly vulnerable because, unlike their female counterparts, they are less likely to report this type of blackmail and are often too embarrassed to tell a trusted adult."

The statistics are startling. New research by Snap Inc., owner of the social media app Snapchat, shows that approximately 65% of teen social media users said they or their friends were either "catfished," tricked into a friendship or relationship by someone with a fake identity, or their private information, including explicit photos, was stolen from their online accounts. One-third of those targeted admitted to sending explicit images.

The emotional damage inflicted by this crime can be devastating. Victims who fall prey to these criminals can experience severe emotional distress and humiliation. In 2022 alone, more than a dozen sextortion victims around the country died by suicide, and multiple victims took their lives within hours of being sextorted. Aside from the emotional harm, sextortion can also cause significant financial strain. The FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center reported the economic losses related to sextortion totaled more than $13.6 million in 2021. Due to the underreporting of this crime, the number of suicides and total financial losses are estimated to be greater.

BSO is committed to doing all we can to find and stop these criminals and bring them to justice. The South Florida ICAC Task Force, hosted by BSO, uses every means available to track down these predators and help victims recover their lives. Unfortunately, because much of the criminal activity originates outside the United States, the quest for justice is an arduous process.

In an effort to stop victimization, the best method is to prevent it from happening in the first place. The BSO ICAC Task Force is teaming up with Broward County Public Schools to launch an educational campaign to connect with students and provide vital information to help them in making informed online decisions.

Parents and caregivers should also do their part by monitoring what their children are doing online, checking who they are communicating with and having conversations regarding online safety. A list of helpful tips and important resources is available at www.sheriff.org/Sextortion.

By staying informed, vigilant and proactive, we can combat sextortion and help create a safer digital landscape for today's youth.

Sheriff Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

As part of our ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability, the Broward Sheriff's Office has published the 2021-22 Annual Report detailing how we protect and serve the community. In its pages, you will find the facts, from the crime-fighting statistics specific to your city to the bold agency-wide initiatives benefitting residents and visitors in Broward County.
 
As you will see, our organization continues to strive for excellence in all we do. I want to highlight some of the many accomplishments in this comprehensive report.
 
Our Aviation Unit is flying high. The team flew nearly 3,000 missions, assisting in 1,000 arrests, recovering 236 vehicles and locating 17 missing or endangered persons. Their outstanding efforts resulted in well-deserved recognition, as the unit was selected as BSO's 2021 Unit of the Year. They also won the 2022 Leadership in Police Aviation Award from the International Association of Chiefs of Police.
 
On the ground, our school resource officers (SROs) continued refining the skills required to protect our children. As our schools' front-line defense, these deputies completed rigorous active killer preparedness training alongside command personnel to effectively manage a critical incident. BSO will continue integrating real-life scenarios into our training regimen to ensure we are always ready and prepared for any situation.
 
Our dedication to fighting crime through education, mentorship and community service continued to pay off. Our Neighborhood Support Team, comprised of sworn and civilian staff, led cultural diversity discussions, provided vital assistance to our seniors and veterans and taught residents about their rights when interacting with our first responders, amongst other essential public safety initiatives. In December 2021, the Florida Crime Prevention Association recognized the team as the Outstanding Crime Prevention Unit of the Year.
 
Other notable endeavors include our Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport district participating in a FEMA full-scale exercise to further enhance our readiness; our Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services Training Unit being honored as our 2021 Unit of the Year for planning, coordinating and conducting training for our more than 850 fire rescue employees; and the BSO Department of Detention hiring additional mental health specialists to support the mental well-being of our inmate population.

These are just a few examples, but there is so much more to learn from this report. Take the time to dive into all the details to better understand how your tax dollars are being spent to protect and serve Broward County. Every action we take is made with you, the resident, in mind. BSO is as much your sheriff's office as ours, and this report was created so you can see exactly how we work for you. Visit https://heyzine.com/flip-book/a90f7eb3e1.html to read the full report and learn more about the many innovative programs at BSO.
 
Sheriff Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

​Juneteenth and Pride are celebrations borne of a tragic past but fueled by hope, each carrying the promise of progress. Although the histories of our black and LGBTQ+ communities are different, they are connected by the struggle for fundamental human rights. As we progress from our past to a more equitable society, the role of the Broward Sheriff's Office progresses with it, and our goal remains the same – to keep everyone safe. 
 
I continue to be committed to enhancing the culture of service at BSO. When our first responders can identify with our residents through similar backgrounds and experiences, they can better understand our community's wants, needs and problems and identify potential solutions.
 
A diverse and inclusive public safety agency is essential to ensuring that all members of our community are treated with dignity and respect. Since taking office, I have prioritized elevating leadership and recruiting employees that better reflect our county. Today, the men and women of BSO make up an organization that is more diverse than ever in our 108-year history. Each of us brings a different perspective and uniqueness to our communities. Most importantly, the men and women of BSO are hired and promoted on the strength of their abilities and because of their desire and commitment to serve.
 
We have also implemented programs and initiatives that increase and support equity, inclusion and understanding, such as our LGBTQ+ Liaison Committee, Racial Intelligence Training and Engagement (RITE) courses and the BSO Social Justice Task Force. As we incorporate these programs into what we do, they continue to develop who we are and what we stand for. The mission of each is to strengthen the relationship between our residents and our organization by creating mutual trust and confidence through community involvement and departmental education.
 
We celebrate these achievements of social progress, but we do so mindful that there is still work to be done. As Broward County grows, we will continue to recruit the best and the brightest individuals committed to serving our residents. We will create and sustain a history we all have pride in.
 
Click here to learn more about our innovative programs supporting equality at BSO. 
 
Sheriff Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. At the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO), we understand mental health concerns are public safety concerns. As a public safety organization, we seek to explore new and effective ways to address mental health issues that touch our community.

Responding to a call for service involving a person in crisis can be challenging. As first responders, we recognize the need to diversify our response capabilities to include a more collaborative approach that best addresses the immediate needs of the situation. Recently, BSO launched a law enforcement Co-Responder Program, which pairs a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) trained deputy with a licensed mental health clinician to respond to crisis calls for service. The joint response provides immediate advantages. The deputy and clinician can accurately determine the needs of the individual and identify opportunities to connect them to necessary community resources. The Co-Responder Program is currently in the pilot phase. Based on its success, we have plans to expand the program to other BSO districts.

Another program focusing on mental health is our Behavioral Health Licensed Therapist (BHLT) program operating under BSO's Threat Management Unit (TMU). BSO's TMU focuses on investigating persons who threaten to commit acts of mass violence and stop that from occurring. The BHLT team is composed of veteran therapists who work alongside TMU detectives to investigate these threats. When a threat is made, one of our licensed therapists is paired with a CIT-trained detective to provide professional on-scene threat and needs assessments. The cooperative investigation affords the ability to assess individuals for mental illness and substance abuse issues and link them with appropriate community providers who can offer treatment. Currently, our BHLT program has assisted with nearly 1,400 cases. Of the individuals they have interacted with, 44 percent have accepted services.

While our new programs and initiatives are making a difference, the cornerstone of our mental health work starts with our CIT program. CIT provides specialized training to help identify and more effectively engage an individual living with a mental health issue. The key is de-escalation. In situations where moods can shift, and actions can escalate quickly, the first few moments of contact are critical to calming individuals.

Our CIT-trained employees are placed where they can have the most significant impact. For example, all our school resource deputies are CIT-trained. In addition, our 9-1-1 communications operators undergo CIT training to identify which calls might require a specialized response. This training is critical on the front lines. About 55 percent of BSO's law enforcement deputies are CIT certified; my goal is to reach 100.

In public safety, no call is the same. Our diversified approach to handling these crisis calls allows us to help individuals in their greatest time of need and connect them with valuable resources. We will continue to explore opportunities that best serve the people and ensure the safety of Broward County.

Sheriff Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

Education and training are critical components to enhancing our knowledge and performance within the public safety profession. Since I took office in 2019, the Broward Sheriff's Office has made tremendous progress in training, education and preparedness. Today, I am proud to share BSO is a flagship organization for training in the State of Florida and the nation. With a 15% reduction in overall crime, we are seeing how our success is positively impacting public safety for the residents of Broward County.

BSO first responders train to maintain and enhance their ability to respond to any crisis. BSO has introduced over 80 new courses in the past four years with nearly 80,000 completed trainings. Further, we have hosted approximately 50 trainings for more than 1,000 members from local, state and federal agencies. With the completion of our new state-of-the-art training center in late 2023, we will continue to provide the most advanced public safety training in Florida.

Our commitment to training also encompasses academics. As an organization, we encourage our employees to pursue continuing education. We have partnered with universities to expand higher education and professional development opportunities. Since 2019, more than 200 employees have enrolled in higher education institutions, and over 50 employees have been awarded degrees, most at the master's and doctorate levels. We have also increased our participation in executive-level training courses.

As an academic myself, I welcome ongoing learning opportunities – especially when it comes to public safety. Currently, I am enrolled as a doctorate student at Nova Southeastern University, pursuing a Ph.D. in criminal justice and organizational leadership. In 2022, I was selected by the FBI to participate in the prestigious National Executive Institute Leadership Course. This tremendous opportunity is given to only the top law enforcement administrators in the nation, and I was honored to be part of it.

In addition to training and education, we have continued to focus on accreditation. Accreditation is awarded to agencies that meet and exceed professional standards. Today, BSO has become Florida's most accredited public safety organization, demonstrating our commitment to operating in compliance with industry standards and best practices. We currently hold 18 national and state accreditations, and these significant accomplishments are a source of pride within BSO's ranks.

I am proud of our accomplishments and successes over the past four years. We will continue to push toward excellence and never become complacent in our responsibility to provide the best in public safety to this community. To learn more about our accreditations and training programs, please visit sheriff.org.

Service Equals Reward
Sheriff Gregory Tony

Our nation has witnessed, once again, another tragedy that took place at the hands of five Memphis police officers. Incidents like this spark outrage and distrust from the people we serve and disappointment among our ranks.

When I entered the law enforcement profession, I did so taking an oath to serve and protect – an honor I hold with high regard, and one I implore among our ranks. While the actions of a few can tarnish the efforts of many, the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) has taken progressive steps toward preventing incidents like this from happening in Broward County.

Since becoming Sheriff, I've worked with our organization's leadership core to implement policies and procedures that identify areas of concern, address behaviors, enhance training and hold people accountable for their actions. The below highlights some of these initiatives:

• Early Warning System: A process designed to detect policy violations and misconduct through the use of various review boards: Use of Force Review Board, Vehicle Pursuit Review Board and the Shooting Review Board. 
• Professional Standards Committee (PSC): We restructured the PSC to include greater diversity and inclusiveness – including minority members, qualified civilians and BSO command staff. The PSC gives the public a voice in critical decisions regarding discipline of deputies accused of wrongdoing. 
• Racial Intelligence Training (RITE): Training focused on reinforcing a bias-free workplace, racial and cultural sensitivity and de-escalation techniques. While BSO nears 100% completion for all deputies, we have also funded the RITE Train-The-Trainer Course, expanding this valuable training opportunity to all local law enforcement agencies to train their personnel. 
• 8 Can't Wait: BSO is in full compliance with the eight immediate proven steps to curtail police violence. 
• Neighborhood Support Team: A proactive law enforcement presence in the community designed to make law enforcement more visible, reduce fear and support interactions between the public and law enforcement. 
• Civilian Review Board: BSO supported the establishment of Broward County's first Police and Criminal Justice Civilian Review Board. The board works to develop best practices and community standards concerning matters of use of force, police misconduct and other bias concerns within the criminal justice. Their recommendations are provided to the County Commission for further consideration for police and other criminal justice agencies. 
• National Use of Force Data Collection: Created by the FBI to provide nationwide statistics on use-of-force-incidents. The collection captures all data related to use of force incidents involving death, serious bodily injury, or the discharge of a firearm at or in the direction of a person. The Broward Sheriff's Office has been reporting this data to the federal agency since 2019.

At BSO, we understand the value of maintaining trust from those we serve. As a public safety organization, we will continue to evaluate policies and build programs centered around doing what is right, responsible, fair and equitable while being accountable and transparent with the community.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

February 14 marks five years since 17 innocent lives were taken at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. Our hearts remain heavy as we remember the victims of the senseless tragedy and offer condolences to all who continue to grieve. Yet, while the pain will never fully heal, we find solace in knowing their legacies live on through meaningful reforms and action.

In the years since, young survivors, family members and community leaders have rallied together, working toward reforms and improvements to keep our schools and community safe. There have also been significant changes in the way public safety agencies operate, none more than the Broward Sheriff's Office. When I first took command of this organization in 2019, I made a commitment to prioritize school safety. As sheriff, I instituted a two-pronged approach focusing on threat mitigation and enhanced training and response protocols to ensure the failures from that tragic day would never happen again.

Public safety is our primary goal, including preventing incidents of mass casualty violence. Our BSO school resource officers continue to undergo comprehensive training annually. Prior to assignment, each SRO must complete a 40-hour state-mandated FDLE course, a 40-hour Crisis Intervention Team training, and training for autism awareness, threat assessment and patrol-rife certification. Furthermore, all BSO SROs must participate in annual active assailant training as an additional requirement. In August 2022, SROs completed a full-scale active killer training to enhance their capabilities and knowledge to rapidly and effectively respond in the event of a school threat.

Additionally, we have expanded BSO's Threat Management Unit (TMU) and Real Time Crime Center (RTCC). Using cutting-edge technology combined with proactive policing, we can monitor and address threats in real time. With access to nearly 18,000 school cameras across Broward County, the TMU has investigated approximately 1,600 potential violent incidents resulting in more than 220 arrests, including connecting 730 individuals with mental healthcare services.

While we've seen incredible results with these threat mitigation improvements, we will never become complacent and will continue to prepare for the next threat. As one of the nation's largest sheriff's offices, we strive to be the most prepared and best-equipped organization in the country. Focused on training, we have significantly expanded our Training Division and instituted more extensive, real-world course requirements for all our sworn personnel.

Our evolution is partly a product of BSO's new Department of Preparedness and Response. Established in June 2020, the department centralizes BSO training under one umbrella, resulting in superior training and service to Broward County. Today, our comprehensive training approach has made BSO a flagship training organization and has attracted public safety professionals locally and nationally.

Our progress continues as we prepare to open the doors to our new, onsite state-of-the-art training center later this year. The 103,000-square-foot facility will match the agency's training needs, maximize staff capabilities and ensure a safe and effective training environment. The highlight of the facility will be the Marjory Stoneman Douglas Memorial Lobby. The names of the 17 lives lost on February 14, 2018, will be etched on the wall and serve as a daily reminder of the valued importance of training and preparedness.

With their memories close to our hearts, we will continue to work tirelessly to make our schools and community safer places to live, learn and grow.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

To build something great, it starts first with a strong foundation. The Broward Sheriff's Office is constructed intentionally with each component dependent on the next for structure, strength and durability. The innovative programs and initiatives we have put in place are contributing to a safer Broward County and are paving a path toward continued success. Continue reading to learn more about some of these exciting new initiatives.

BSO CO-RESPONDER PROGRAM
A cornerstone of our foundation is our commitment to helping individuals suffering a mental health crisis. BSO's new Co-Responder Program is an innovative approach to assisting individuals in crisis by pairing a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) trained deputy with a licensed mental health clinician to respond to calls for service. Their collaboration provides immediate advantages as they are able to more accurately determine the needs of the person or persons in distress and connect them to the necessary community resources.

BSO TRAINING CENTER
CIT is one of the many types of training we have at BSO. In only a few years, we have raised the training standards for all our first responders and agency personnel. Soon we will be able to house all this training under one roof. Construction crews are making incredible progress on BSO's state-of-the-art training center. Once completed, the 103,000-square-foot facility will be the first dedicated on-site training facility in our organization's 107-year history. The training center will undoubtedly be one of the best in the state and mark a significant milestone that will bring us closer to furthering our commitment to public safety.

ADVANCEMENTS IN TECHNOLOGY
As our training becomes increasingly proficient, so too does our technology. Recently, BSO's Crime Lab acquired a high-tech instrument that better sequences DNA to identify people. The machine can help determine specific information about the person the DNA came from, including hair and eye color. This valuable new tool will aid in investigations of homicides, sexual assaults and acts of terrorism. It can also be used to identify human remains.

AWARD-WINNING SPECIALIZED UNITS
Lastly, I want to recognize our regional specialized units, which continue to grow in their accomplishments. These units work daily to assist all residents of Broward County and other local public safety agencies. Last year, BSO's Aviation Unit received worldwide recognition for its excellence, winning the 2022 Leadership in Police Aviation Award from the International Association of Chiefs of Police and the Teledyne FLIR PURSUIT award. In the first ten months of 2022 alone, the unit directed deputies on the ground to make nearly 1,000 arrests. The BSO Aviation Unit, and all our specialized units, such as K-9 Unit, Bomb Squad and Hazardous Materials Unit, respond wherever needed. These units have made our county immeasurably safer, and I'm confident they will continue to make great strides in the coming year.

This highlights only a few of the many new and exciting programs we will continue to build upon in 2023. We have a lot to look forward to.

Happy New Year!

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

What a year it's been! As we turned the corner on the COVID-19 pandemic, the Broward Sheriff's Office (BSO) remained fully committed to our core mission of providing top-notch public safety services while continuing to create new and innovative programs and initiatives. We returned to hosting in-person community events, solving decade-old crimes and improving critical training and educational opportunities for employees. Here are some of the highlights:

CONNECTING WITH THE COMMUNITY
After two years of limited in-person community interaction, BSO showed up in a big way. We hosted numerous important events, including our Shred-a-thon and Operation Medicine Cabinet events, National Night Out, town halls and other community centered events. These opportunities continue to build mutual trust and understanding with those we serve. Check our community events calendar on sheriff.org for dates and locations of upcoming events near you.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
We awarded 76 deserving community-based non-profits a total of $930,000 in Law Enforcement Trust Funds (LETF). This was the most money given out in a single year under my leadership. These funds, which come from the forfeiture and seizure of contraband used in the commission of a crime, are given back to the community through organizations to further the mission of preventing crime and keeping our neighborhoods safe. To learn more about how your non-profit organization can apply for a future LETF grant, please visit sheriff.org and follow us on social media for future announcements on when applications are being accepted.

STRENGTHENING OUR 911 SYSTEM
Earlier this year, BSO succeeded in obtaining additional funding from the Broward County Commission to increase the salaries of our communications operators. This increase makes us competitive with surrounding public safety call centers and helps recruit and retain these critical employees. If you have a passion to serve and want a rewarding career, visit us at jobs.sheriff.org or contact our Recruitment Unit at recruitmentunit@sheriff.org.

CLOSING CASES
"Gone, but not forgotten" is the impetus behind BSO's dedicated Cold Case Unit. Formed in 2019, the unit offers increased attention to unsolved cases, and this year the unit had incredible successes. In one instance, we identified and criminally charged a man known as the Pillowcase Rapist, who was responsible for many sexual assaults in the 1980s. In another, the unit solved the 1994 rape and murder of an 89-year-old woman. We also launched an exclusive Cold Case video series to uncover possible new leads and bring more exposure to these investigations. I encourage you to take some time to view the series on the Broward Sheriff's Office YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/BrowardSheriffsOffice. If you have any information about these crimes, please contact Broward Crime Stoppers at (954) 493-TIPS(8477).

STAFF TRAINING AND EDUCATION
Training and education are paramount for operational preparedness and excellence in service. In 2022, BSO partnered with local universities to expand higher education opportunities for all personnel and increased participation in executive-level training courses. As sheriff, I must lead by example. This year, I was selected to participate and completed the FBI's prestigious National Executive Institute Leadership Course. I am also currently pursuing my Ph.D. at Nova Southeastern University. As an organization, we are on a mission to become the most academically credentialed agency in the state.

This year, we finalized plans for BSO's state-of-the-art training center, broke ground and construction crews are making tremendous progress. Upon completion, the 100,000+ square-foot facility will be the first dedicated onsite training facility in our organization's 107-year history. It will elevate our preparedness and enhance our public safety services to the Broward County community. Follow our progress on our Facebook and Instagram, @browardsheriffsoffice.

As we head into the holiday season, you will continue to see BSO out safeguarding your neighborhoods and getting to know our residents. Stop by and say hello!

On behalf of BSO's men and women, have a happy and safe holiday season! We'll see you in the new year.

 
Sheriff Gregory Tony
Service Equals Reward

We are all only one major crisis away from homelessness. To understand this startling fact, we need look no further than the devastation wrought by Hurricane Ian, which destroyed an untold number of residences and displaced thousands of people into emergency shelters. Many who went to sleep the night before the storm with a home, food, an income and easy access to physical and behavioral healthcare are faced with uncertainties of what's to come. It can happen that quickly. 

The Broward Sheriff's Office Homeless Outreach Team works tirelessly to link displaced community members with the social services necessary to start anew and get back on their feet. Focused on providing care and assistance, the team has at least one specialist in every BSO district working full-time to support and assist these individuals. 

Everyone's story is important. These individuals come from all walks of life with diverse backgrounds, passions and needs. Our Homeless Outreach Team specialists work to build rapport and trust and gain a better understanding of their situation. Sometimes, getting someone to accept assistance may take weeks, months or years, but we've had tremendous success by never giving up. Once someone is ready to receive help, we work quickly to connect them with appropriate services. 

The men and women of BSO are committed to service – and aiding someone in need is an opportunity we don't shy away from. In September, off-duty Sergeant Mike Weiner stopped to check on a man sitting alone in his vehicle with a flat tire. Sgt. Weiner, who oversees BSO's Homeless Outreach Team in Pompano Beach, discovered the man's name was Hayward. A Vietnam War veteran, Hayward had been homeless for an extended period and had lost contact with his family and friends. With the man's consent, Sgt. Weiner contacted veteran services. Deputy Mike Francis, who received the 2020 BSO Deputy of the Year Award for his work with our homeless population, contacted a community partner to assist Hayward in getting a hotel room until the Veterans Affairs Division could make accommodations. Hayward has remained in constant contact with our Homeless Outreach Team. He will soon be moving into a Veteran Assisted Living Facility where he can stay indefinitely and receive professional care. 

The upcoming holiday season will offer more opportunities to positively impact the lives of our local homeless population. Memories of special times with their loved ones can provoke interest in resolving damaged relationships. Our Homeless Outreach Team spends much of the holidays helping these individuals reunite with family and friends. 

The team also takes this time to prepare for weather changes. This past January, South Florida endured the coldest temperatures in over a decade. BSO's Homeless Outreach Team, in partnership with the Multi-Agency Homeless Task Force, the Broward County Homeless Initiative Partnership and other community organizations, made an emergency purchase of blankets, socks and other necessities, which our deputies distributed to provide warmth to those in need. 

Hope is the most important thing we can provide anyone in need. Once someone sees the possibility of recapturing their life, it rejuvenates the belief a successful outcome is attainable. As an organization, we are committed to identifying the needs of the community and meeting them however we can – for most, a little hope is all they require.

Service Equals Reward 

Sheriff Gregory Tony

Cold cases, by their very name, are crimes that remain unsolved. Investigating these cases takes patience, tenacity and innovative thinking. At the Broward Sheriff's Office, unsolved crimes will never be placed on the shelf or forgotten, and the passage of time will not delay our quest for justice.

In 2019, BSO created a full-time Cold Case Unit, whose primary function is to investigate unsolved homicides and sex crimes. The cases date back to 1963; today, about 350 remain open.

The trails of these investigations might have gone cold, but the pain for the families never goes away. The detectives investigating these crimes work tirelessly for the victim's loved ones, never giving up the search for that one clue that could help lead us to solve these crimes.

Making progress on these cases can be challenging; however, significant technological advances have helped immensely. Thirty years ago, DNA testing was in its infancy. Today, we can retest physical evidence to identify potential suspects and link them to a crime. Progress in fingerprint identification has also come a long way. Even minute, unique details of an individual fingerprint can be discerned by new programs, leading to faster and more accurate identification.

Last year, the BSO Cold Case Unit, working with the Miami Police Department, Brazilian National Police and U.S. federal agencies, tracked down the man responsible for the brutal murders of three South Florida women decades ago through DNA and fingerprint technology. The resolution of the case received worldwide attention. However, it is only one of the eight cases the BSO Cold Case Unit has solved since its inception.

To bring more exposure to these investigations, we launched a cold case video series to uncover possible new leads. The first episode details a North Lauderdale mother and daughter who were shot and killed in their bed in 2017. In another, a Pompano Beach-based American Airlines pilot was shot nine times at his front door in 2011. The latest episode explores the brutal murder of Jerri Emken in 1985, who was found dead at the Pompano Beach bar where she worked. While the murders remain unsolved, detectives hope the series will jog a memory and result in new leads bringing resolution to these cases. I encourage you to take some time to view this series on the Broward Sheriff's Office YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/BrowardSheriffsOffice.

You, too, can help bring a critical clue to one of our cold cases. Broward Crime Stoppers is a vital resource for submitting tips resulting in successful outcomes. Even the most minor clues, something someone saw, heard or remembered, can result in a new lead. Anyone with information on unsolved cases is asked to contact the Broward Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Division at (954) 321-4200 or Broward Crime Stoppers at (954) 493-TIPS (8477) to report a tip anonymously.

Service Equals Reward
Sheriff Gregory Tony

This month, we honor the more than 500 deputies, firefighters and civilian employees, who faced significant danger, saved lives and performed exceptional acts in 2020 and 2021 during the Broward Sheriff's Office Annual Awards Ceremony.    

The awards ceremony celebrates the best and bravest in public safety. These dedicated professionals were selected for their exemplary actions, outstanding achievements and service in safeguarding Broward County. The accolades for these individuals are well deserved, and I'll share with you some impactful highlights. 

2020 Law Enforcement Deputy of the Year 

Deputy Michael Francis embodies what it means to be a trusted public servant and leader. Each day, he diligently works to improve the lives of Broward County residents. From assisting families with legal aid to helping homeless individuals obtain shelter, his efforts have tremendously benefitted our community. It is an honor to recognize Deputy Francis as BSO's 2020 Law Enforcement Deputy of the Year.   

2021 Unit of the Year: Department of Preparedness and Response  

The BSO Aviation Unit serves as our eyes in the sky. Comprised of six pilots, six tactical flight officers (TFO), and two pilot-sergeants, this unit is called out for incidents anywhere they are needed at a moment's notice. From finding missing or endangered children to aiding in offshore water rescues, the unit is a proven asset for all of Broward County. In 2021, the Aviation Unit flew 3,127 missions totaling 1,711 flight hours; of those missions, 1,305 were requests from outside agencies. Their efforts resulted in more than 1,000 arrests and the recovery of 241 stolen vehicles. Excellence defines this unit, and I am proud to announce them as the 2021 Unit of the Year for the Department of Preparedness and Response.   

2021 Volunteer Service Award  

I've always said it takes a village to raise a child — and we take that to heart at BSO. Helping our county's children grow into responsible, civically engaged adults is one of our passions. Last year, BSO launched our summer L.E.A.D. Camp (Learning, Educating, and Developing). The innovative eight-week leadership program helps shape the lives of Broward youth ages 10-18. The success of our inaugural camp was made possible thanks to our incredible volunteers, including many BSO employees, who dedicated their time to managing the program and serving as mentors – encouraging and enriching the lives of Broward's youth. It is a privilege to award these employees the 2021 Volunteer Service Award.   

These highlights are just a few of the tremendous accomplishments of the BSO team. In addition, we will award our most prestigious recognition, the Medal of Honor, to four courageous BSO veterans who performed extraordinary acts at significant personal risk to their lives. Additional accolades will be given to the detective of the year, firefighter of the year, communications operator of the year, civilian employees of the year, citizen of the year and units of the year, among others.   

I invite you to join me as we formally honor these outstanding individuals at the 2020 and 2021 Annual Award Ceremony at 10:00 a.m. on September 14 at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center. I hope to see you there.  

Sheriff Gregory Tony 

Service Equals Reward 

The men and women of the Broward Sheriff's Office work hard to assure public safety. An essential part of that mission is ensuring those who serve across this organization aren't only nameless faces to the community but also role models, mentors and coaches for Broward County youth.
 
Allow me to share my vision about the importance of establishing a legacy of service that will carry us through the next hundred years. What we do today affects our tomorrow. My administration reflects these sentiments and together, we have initiated effective mentorship programs focused on enriching the lives of our youth and providing them with the skills, encouragement and knowledge to be successful.
 
The benefits of these programs are twofold: they help build our youth into strong, responsible adults while strengthening relationships with our public safety professionals. Further, our innovative programs are already achieving positive results.
 
R.E.A.D.
It's never too early to connect with our youngest populations and make a difference. BSO launched the R.E.A.D. program (Reading Expands Academic Discovery) earlier this year at Oriole Elementary School in Lauderdale Lakes after learning many of the students struggled with reading and had limited access to books. In response, BSO personnel read to the children at the school and donated books for them to take home. The program's primary focus is to encourage critical reading habits at an early age, allowing them to establish a solid educational foundation and develop reading skills faster and more efficiently. Our secondary focus is to engage with our local youth by building trust and creating lasting bonds.
 
"When we started the program, the students were apprehensive," Captain Audrey Jones remembers. "Now, they greet us with hugs and are excited we're there. It's about gaining trust, changing perceptions and letting them know we're there to help."
 
L.E.A.D.
BSO's Youth L.E.A.D. Camp (Learning, Educating and Developing) is an eight-week summer camp designed to help develop Broward County adolescents ages 10-18 into responsible, civically engaged adults. In partnership with community-based organizations, the program focuses on reinforcing seven important pillars to enhance values, build skills and develop the confidence needed to succeed in life. The program is interactive and educational, and the feedback has been incredibly positive.
 
"My daughter had a wonderful experience. This camp was so fun and informative!" shared one participant's parent. Another parent added, "My son thoroughly enjoyed this program and enjoyed seeing this positive side of law enforcement."
 
The 2022 L.E.A.D. Camp just wrapped up its second season. To learn more about the program and important dates for next year, visit www.sheriff.org/lead.
 
S.E.E.D.
To plant a seed today is to believe in tomorrow - that is at the heart of BSO's Deerfield Beach S.E.E.D. (Skills Enhancement and Employment Development) initiative. Launched in February 2021, the program teaches young adults from Deerfield Beach High School essential skills, including interview techniques, resume creation and job professionalism. BSO developed S.E.E.D. by engaging with teens in the community who expressed a gap in knowledge on how to obtain employment. This prompted BSO to step in, address the concerns and work to find a solution to develop a lasting resource.
 
"We try to be innovative and think outside the box," says program co-creator Deputy Joseph LoMonaco. "We are thrilled at the success of this program."⠀
 
In addition to these great mentorship programs, BSO offers other exciting youth opportunities throughout the year. These programs include participation in the Law Enforcement Explorers, Fire Rescue Cadets and the Police Athletic League. More information about these and other great programs is available at www.sheriff.org.
 
The employees of BSO have the unique responsibility to encourage and enrich the lives of our youth—and I'm proud of the work we are doing for the next generation of leaders.
 
Service Equals Reward
 
Sheriff Gregory Tony

Our nation has again experienced tragedy after multiple recent mass casualty shooting events in Buffalo, NY, Laguna Woods, CA and Uvalde, TX. As a community, we have learned about the value of training and preparedness after our own experiences at The Fort-Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport and Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. Training is necessary for any profession but critical for first responders. Their safety and the lives of those they have sworn to protect depend on it.

I can tell you from experience no matter how mentally and physically prepared someone is, amid the emotion, adrenaline and urgency of the moment, the importance of training becomes immediately apparent. With more training comes increased discipline, readiness and clarity of purpose. Speed, efficiency and accuracy are improved when we repeat actions and rehearse scenarios. You can equip people with the best tools, but they also need the knowledge and ability to use them effectively.

Today, our in-house training programs are second to none. Since accepting command of the organization, the Broward Sheriff's Office has become the first agency in Florida to have a nationally certified active shooter training unit. We continually rotate our deputies through critical incident and crisis mitigation exercises to ensure they are ready for any incident. BSO's Department of Fire Rescue and Emergency Services continues to raise the bar by introducing specialized training tactics and skills to enhance performance. One such skill includes the ability to draft, which involves gathering water from a static source should a fire hydrant not be available.

We have also prioritized Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training for all deputies to engage more effectively with individuals experiencing a crisis or mental health issue. Currently, more than 60 percent of our Department of Law Enforcement deputies are CIT trained, which is more than double the national average, as well as 40 percent of our Department of Detention deputies. Additionally, 74 percent of all BSO employees, and 96 percent of all deputies, have completed the Racial Intelligence Training and Engagement course (RITE), which reinforces a bias-free workplace and teaches racial and cultural sensitivity and de-escalation techniques.

Tactical performance, readiness and professional development training are instrumental to preparedness in public safety and are offered at every level of our agency. We have established partnerships with top organizations and educational institutions to provide enhanced training for our sworn personnel and executive development for our command staff, managers and directors. Our comprehensive training approach has made BSO a flagship training organization and has attracted public safety professionals locally and nationally.

Our progress will continue. The construction of our state-of-the-art training center is hitting a fevered pace. Once completed, the 103,000-square-foot facility will house all our training initiatives under one roof and usher in a new and exciting era at BSO.

If you want to learn more about BSO and how we serve the community, we invite you to be a part of our Citizens Academy. The 10-week program combines classroom learning and hands-on exercises to experience everything our organization does to serve this community. Click here to learn more or visit www.sheriff.org.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

Broward County is the statewide epicenter of a fentanyl epidemic ravaging the nation. During Spring Break, the deadly effects of the problem were made even more evident when thousands of college students flocked to the county, resulting in growing overdoses and hospitalizations. In one terrifying incident, six spring breakers from New York, including five West Point cadets, suffered severe fentanyl overdoses. The incident put faces and names on a crisis affecting every level of our society.

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid up to 100 times more potent than morphine which mirrors the effects of heroin. Just a few salt-sized grains can lead to rapid death. Whether used as a cheap filler in illicit drugs or sold as a counterfeit pill made to look like prescription opioids, fentanyl is the leading contributor to overdose deaths in the United States.

The statistics are striking. Last year, more than 100,000 Americans died of drug overdoses, with about two-thirds of the deaths linked to fentanyl and other synthetic drugs. In Florida, Broward County leads the state in fentanyl-related deaths. In 2020, 798 people died due to accidental overdoses, with 611 cases involving fentanyl. That's a staggering 72 percent increase in overdose deaths involving fentanyl from the year prior. Though cases for 2021 and 2022 are still being analyzed, they, unfortunately, appear on track to set new records.

While this public health emergency is historic, the Broward Sheriff's Office and community partners are committed to ending the deadly drug plague through a three-pronged approach of enforcement, intervention and education. 

BSO detectives and deputies continue to track down the dealers and distributors of this poison and put them behind bars. Earlier this year, our Strategic Investigations Division (SID) and our law enforcement partners took down members of the criminal street gang, Alwoods Gang. Detectives seized large quantities of illegal drugs during the operation, including more than 20 kilos of heroin and fentanyl. 

The Broward Sheriff's Office also assists those who are struggling with addiction. For example, we have been instrumental in getting professional peer specialists deployed to Broward Health hospitals, so patients discharged after an overdose can be guided into appropriate treatment. In addition, BSO provides its deputies with the anti-opioid overdose drug, Narcan. BSO also coordinates a federal grant that facilitates the availability of Narcan to law enforcement agencies in Broward County. 

Offering ongoing education to the community on the impact of illicit drugs is paramount to our efforts. As a member of the county's Community Response Team, BSO conducts community education programs and advises the public about the dangers of fentanyl. This team comprises nearly 100 members, including local law enforcement, treatment providers, epidemiologists, hospitals, and others working to combat opiate abuse in Broward County. In addition, to unify drug mitigation efforts between private and public sector organizations, I serve as the co-chair of Project Opioid Broward. The statewide initiative is a collaborative action by the Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance Foundation and Florida Blue Foundation to address the opioid crisis.

Stopping this epidemic is a community effort, and we all need to work together to find solutions and save lives. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, there are places to go for help and resources. Call 211 or visit Broward Addiction Recovery Center and The United Way of Broward County for more information.   

Service Equals Reward 

Sheriff Gregory Tony

Are you looking to make a difference? Are you ready for a challenge? If so, we want you to be part of Team BSO! 

The Broward Sheriff's Office is actively looking for driven and passionate individuals who wish to embark on an exciting and rewarding career in public safety. We are seeking to fill numerous positions within the organization, from detention and law enforcement deputies to 911 dispatchers and other civilian personnel. 

We're looking for people who share my mantra: Service Equals Reward. That means always doing what is right and putting the interests of others and your community before all else. Working in public safety is much more than stopping crime and putting out fires; it's also about connecting with the people. I believe if we focus on providing the best possible service to Broward County, the rewards will come. 

At BSO, we have positions for many skillsets and passions. One of our most pressing needs is detention deputies. As a detention deputy, you will help maintain order within our facilities and ensure the care, custody and control of detainees. Additional vacancies include law enforcement deputies and firefighter/paramedics. However, if your interests lie elsewhere, we have openings in the critically important non-sworn positions of Regional Communications Operators, Child Protective Investigations Section (CPIS) Investigators and treatment counselors, among many others.  

BSO is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of age, citizenship status, color, disability, marital status, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation. Veterans' preference per Florida law. Many of our current vacancies do not require a college degree, so we encourage everyone, novice or tenured, to take advantage of the employment opportunities available. 

BSO is the most highly accredited sheriff's office in the state and one of the leading public safety organizations in the country. Aside from a rewarding career with a stellar organization, BSO offers competitive salaries, an outstanding work environment and exclusive benefits, including low-cost medical insurance, retirement pension and generous time off. There are also numerous opportunities for advancement, professional development and tuition reimbursement for furthering your education. Equally important, you will not just be an employee at BSO — you will become part of our BSO family.  

For more information, or to view our complete list of employment vacancies, visit us at jobs.sheriff.org. Keep checking back as new opportunities are added regularly. If you have specific questions, please contact our Recruitment Unit at recruitmentunit@sheriff.org. 

Be part of the BSO family and make a difference! 

Service Equals Reward 

Sheriff Gregory Tony 

First responders rely heavily on a group of unseen heroes daily to provide valuable information regarding incidents they are responding to. These individuals are often never seen but always trusted. Our communications operators are often the first point of contact for those in emergency situations; essentially, they are the true first responders. 

Currently, 911 communication centers across the country face a shortage of essential workers. Unfortunately, this is also the case at the Broward Sheriff's Office. If you call 911, you may experience longer hold times. Here are some important tips that may help both you and our operators navigate the current shortage: 

• Only call 911 in an actual emergency. Call BSO's non-emergency line at 954-764-HELP (4357) if your issue is not an emergency.

• When calling 911, don't hang up. Your call will be answered. If you hang up and call back, your call goes to the back of the queue.   

• If your call gets disconnected or you hang up, a 911 operator will call you back.   

While there is a shortage of operators at our communication centers, this could serve as a terrific opportunity for you to embark on a new career. There is no greater reward than serving your community. In addition to a gratifying career, communications operators also receive competitive salaries, enjoy an outstanding work environment, numerous opportunities for advancement, and competitive benefits, including low-cost medical insurance, a retirement pension and generous annual leave.  

Each year, our communications operators handle more than 1.2 million calls for service, and each one is unique. Dispatchers are responsible for providing information to responding emergency personnel and relaying crucial medical information to distressed callers while emergency services are on their way. This can include talking someone through the steps of performing CPR or offering instructions to help someone deliver a baby. While these interactions are often viewed as extraordinary calls, they are routine for our operators. 

In speaking with a veteran BSO employee who has dedicated her career to working in Communications, Dominique Mathis stated, "The Broward Sheriff's Office has afforded me an opportunity to raise my two sons, travel, obtain a master's degree, and most importantly, grow as a person." Dominique has also assisted significantly in recruitment efforts by encouraging others who have a passion for serving to follow in her footsteps. "Go for it," Dominique says. "Save lives and be involved in public service. Don't hesitate; apply today!" 

If you think you have what it takes to join Dominique and BSO's other remarkable communications operators, visit us at jobs.sheriff.org or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn for this and other employment opportunities. You can also contact our Recruitment Unit at recruitmentunit@sheriff.org with any questions you may have. 

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

Heather Echaniz, a job developer for the Broward Sheriff's Office Day Reporting and Reentry Division (DRRD), remembers all the former inmates she has helped, but one client stands out. When she worked with the client, he was recovering from alcohol addiction and needed a job. This assignment was especially challenging because he was on the verge of relapsing. Nevertheless, Heather persisted. With her help, the client successfully fought his addiction and found suitable employment. His employer was so impressed with the quality of his work they returned to DRRD to find additional employees. 

Heather works every day with a diverse group of clients, all with different needs, strengths and struggles. With her support, she works toward leading them down the path of success. "Many people do not realize how much getting a job means for these individuals," Heather said. "Making a difference in their lives truly makes a difference in mine." 

Each year, thousands of inmates held in prison facilities throughout the state return to Broward County, and nearly 62 percent commit new crimes within three years of being released. BSO's DRRD is working toward changing that statistic by providing the reintegration support needed to succeed during the transition. The program is also designed to assist individuals within the Broward County jail system with community reentry. The program begins during an individual's sentence and includes an individual case plan. Upon release, the program focuses on removing the barriers to successful reentry and provides the support needed to restructure their lives and become self-sufficient. 

The work Heather and the rest of the DRRD division does not only reduce crime; it provides hope and support for individuals trying to reenter society and reclaim their lives. 

In recognition of Women's History Month, it is an honor to highlight Heather's great work. She is one of the many strong, compassionate and dedicated women of BSO who lead, protect and serve this community every day. Thank you for making Broward County a better place to call home. 

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

As we enter Black History Month and honor the remarkable trailblazers who have helped make change in America, I am excited to share with you the long and fascinating history of the Broward Sheriff's Office at an incredible museum exhibit. 

Beginning February 1, BSO has the honor of showcasing an extraordinary collection of memorabilia and rare, never-before-seen photos at the Broward County Main Library in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The exhibit, titled The Broward Sheriff's Office: A Century of Progress in Public Safety, takes you on an intriguing journey showcasing BSO's transformation from a small police force serving a modest farming community to one of the largest, most progressive and inclusive full-service public safety agencies in the country. 

Curated by Deputy Joseph Williams, a 48-year BSO veteran, the exhibit is a fascinating walk through time. I am a history buff, and I found myself fascinated, learning new things at every turn. There is no doubt you'll come away from the exhibit with a better understanding and appreciation of BSO's rich history and how far we have come as a public safety agency. 

The exhibit begins with our founding in 1915 and the election of Broward's first sheriff, local businessman A.W. Turner. Sheriff Turner led a small staff of men who bore no resemblance to the nearly 5,600 highly trained professionals who today serve Florida's second-most populous county. 

From there, through an impressive collection of eye-catching memorabilia and photographs, we move forward in time, highlighting some of the cast of characters that makes BSO what it is today. We spotlight Deputy James Primous, who broke the color barrier in the 1950s to become the first Black deputy at BSO. We also celebrate the women who paved the way for other women to serve our county in critical public safety positions.

Our exhibit also includes an impressive array of patches, badges, uniforms and equipment to see how our look and technology have changed through the years. The display of remarkable photos captures the essence of each era. We also pay tribute to our fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to Broward citizens. There is so much more to experience, and I would encourage you to go and see it for yourself. 

I want to close by offering a special thank you to the outstanding staff with the Broward County Library who helped make this possible. It is a profound honor to share our history with Broward County residents. I hope you enjoy the exhibit as much as I do.

EXHIBIT DETAILS

Title: The Broward Sheriff's Office: A Century of Progress in Public Safety

Location: Broward County Main Library: Second Floor, 100 S. Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301

Dates: Begins February 1 – April 30, 2022

Cost: FREE

Sheriff Gregory Tony

Service Equals Reward

January is an excellent time to reflect on the previous year. Looking back also helps as we move forward. We have accomplished so much in the past 12 months. While we continued to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic and its associated challenges, the Broward Sheriff's Office maintained its level of exceptional public safety services. Today, relationships between first responders and the residents of this community have never been stronger. BSO continues to be one of the most highly accredited public safety organizations in the state of Florida. These achievements are possible because of the men and women of this organization who are committed to listening, collaborating and working diligently to be the best public safety agency the public has come to expect. 

As we enter the new year, our efforts will continue. Our mission in 2022 is to build on our successes throughout every corner of BSO.

TRAINING 

Training continues to be a priority for BSO. We will continue to excel in our level of preparedness to respond to any incident or emergency, big or small. Our state-of-the-art training center is entering the next phase of its development. While the 103,000 square-foot facility will usher in a new and exciting era at BSO, the trainings listed below demonstrate some of the ways we continue to improve upon our training. 

We continue to rotate all of our deputies through critical incident and crisis mitigation trainings. Additionally, nearly 50 percent of our organization's personnel have completed the Racial Intelligence Training and Engagement course (RITE). This training goes a long way toward increasing public trust by building upon our first responders' emotional and social intelligence. As a member of the Broward County Chiefs of Police Association, BSO funded the RITE Train-The-Trainer Course to ensure all local enforcement agencies had the same opportunity to train their personnel. We will continue to climb toward our goal of 100 percent. 

To more effectively engage individuals living with mental health issues, we have increased our Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training for all deputies. Currently, more than 60 percent of our Department of Law Enforcement deputies are CIT trained, more than double the national average, as well as 40 percent of our Department of Detention deputies.

Lastly, at a time when public safety agencies nationwide struggle to recruit, we continue to fill vacancies across the organization, hiring 337 new employees in 2021. 

TRANSPARENCY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

BSO continues to lead the way when it comes to accountability. Our Use of Force Review Board is proving to be a vital tool in our efforts to ensure our deputies are held accountable if they do wrong. 

In 2022, accountability will continue to be a cornerstone of this organization. There is no room for error in public safety, but if a mistake is made, it is only fair to ourselves and those we serve to find out why it occurred and work toward a solution. 

In addition, our mission is always to provide Broward County with the best public safety services in a fiscally responsible and transparent manner. There is no better way to see how your tax dollars are being spent to keep you and your family safe than reviewing our annual budget. You can view it here: https://bit.ly/3pD0DRW.

TEAMWORK

Community policing is not just a buzzword at BSO. We have found new ways to make positive, impactful changes in our interactions with the community. Our Park, Walk and Talk program continues to see great success with more than 24,500 positive public interactions in 2021. Our Neighborhood Support Team continues to build community partnerships to help better serve and meet our residents' needs.  

Our willingness to listen and be open has resulted in a productive shift in community interactions – and a big part of that is the incredible work of our Social Justice Task Force. The task force provides a voice to community leaders and stakeholders to engage in honest and sometimes difficult conversations and develop solutions and innovative programs.

LEADERSHIP

BSO currently has the most diverse, experienced command staff in the agency's history. In 2022, through our new internal leadership program, we will be working on succession planning and professional development, sharing the years of knowledge and experience with those in our agency who are younger in their careers. We intend to build BSO's next generation of leaders. 

I am proud of the work we have done and look forward to the great work ahead of us. I hope you have a safe, blessed new year.  

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

The holiday season is upon us. This time of year should bring you and your loved ones joy and cheer. Unfortunately, with all the distractions, shopping and traveling, criminals look for opportune moments to take advantage of you. At the Broward Sheriff's Office, we want to ensure you are safe from harm this holiday season. Here are some important safety tips to help protect you from becoming a victim: 

PROTECT YOURSELF

• When shopping, be aware of your surroundings and park in a well-lit area.
• Never carry large amounts of cash with you.
• Conduct ATM transactions in safe locations during the daytime.
• Avoid leaving valuables in your vehicle.
• Avoid leaving shopping bags, even if they are empty, in your vehicle.
• Incorporate the 9PM Routine into your schedule as a nightly reminder to check your vehicle for any valuables while ensuring the doors to your vehicle are safely locked.
• Remember BSO's district offices can serve as safe havens for online buyers and sellers to meet. Contact your local BSO district office for assistance. A list of district offices can be found on www.sheriff.org/LE.  

PROTECT YOUR IDENTITY

• Only shop online with trusted companies.
• Pay for online purchases with a credit card instead of a debit card.
• Do not click on unknown links that come through via email or text message.

PROTECT YOUR HOME

• Lock your doors.
• Use timers to operate lights at night.
• Consider installing a home security system.
• While you're away, ask someone to retrieve your packages if you are expecting a home delivery and have someone you trust check on your home.

If you are going out of town, consider signing up for BSO's free Vacation Home Watch Program. Deputies, a community service aide or volunteers will check on your residence for signs of a break-in or suspicious activity. To participate, call or stop by your local BSO district office.

Let's all do our part to ensure we have a safe and merry holiday season. Happy holidays from our BSO family to yours!

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

Deputy Aaron Moore had not yet completed the police academy when he deployed to Iraq in 2003. As an enlisted member of the United States Army National Guard, Deputy Moore prepared for war, but he encountered something different. He spent much of his time on foot patrol in Ramadi, a city in Central Iraq, interacting with Iraqi citizens and ensuring their safety. He saw that many were in need, and he did what he could to give them aid, even if that just meant listening. He ultimately spent 18 months in the Middle East.

When Deputy Moore returned to the United States, he finished the academy and became a Broward Sheriff's Office deputy. He realized his experience in Iraq helped him achieve greater empathy and enabled him to recognize the residents in his own community who needed help. He did his best to uplift and aid homeless veterans in his zone and found ways to provide shoes, book bags and other essentials to kids who needed them. When the opportunity arose to join the BSO Homeless Outreach Team, he immediately accepted. He is now an essential part of our Neighborhood Support Team. Most recently, during the COVID-19 pandemic, he helped our agency distribute more than 300,000 boxes of groceries and 2,500 hot meals to those significantly impacted. 

Deputy Moore is just one example of the sacrifice, patriotism and bravery of our military veterans and the value they offer to our community long after their tours of duty end. Hundreds of BSO employees are veterans of our armed forces, and many still serve.

BSO works tirelessly to support the veterans in our communities. Two recent examples are in mid-September, we learned a U.S. Navy veteran, who had recently found housing after living on the streets and in shelters, needed furniture for his apartment. Our BSO Homeless Outreach Team used their community connections to find an organization willing to help provide gently used living room and dining room furniture, as well as other household items. In addition, a team of BSO deputies acted as movers to transport the items from the donor to the veteran, bringing comfort and stability to a veteran in need. 

We assisted a former Marine earlier this year who served two tours in Iraq and experienced some of the most dramatic and challenging fighting of the war. As a result, he has Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and traumatic brain injuries, leaving him permanently disabled. BSO, along with community partners, worked on a home remodel for the veteran and his wife. 

Central to the BSO ethos is the concept of service. It is what drives each of us to be better public servants and first responders. No group embodies this concept more than our military veterans. This Veterans Day, and every day, we honor the brave men and women who served to protect our freedoms and way of life. We also celebrate the efforts of those who wear the uniform and continue to serve. 

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

​Treats, ghouls and spine-chilling fun are just a few reasons why Halloween is one of the most anticipated times of year for kids. Unfortunately, Halloween can also be the most dangerous time of year for children. Nearly 4,000 Halloween-related injuries occur every year, including falling accidents, poisoning, burns and motor accidents. Although the festivities can be fun, we want to remind you of these important safety tips to help prevent real horrors from occurring.

Costume Safety:

• Your child’s costume should allow them to walk easily. If the costume involves a mask, ensure they take it off when crossing the street so the mask does not obstruct their vision.
• Have something reflective, such as a glow stick or reflective tape, attached to their costume.
• Use a flashlight if you’re out during evening hours.

When Children Are Trick-Or-Treating:

• Accompany your children or make sure a trusted adult goes with them.
• Instruct older kids to go in one group.
• Trick-or-treat in your neighborhood.
• Always look both ways when crossing the street.
• Utilize the sidewalk. If there is no sidewalk, walk facing traffic.
• Be alert to parked cars. Double-check the vehicle is not about to be in motion.
• Bring hand sanitizer with you and use it after touching objects or other people.
• Wash hands and inspect all treats before allowing your children to consume them. Throw away any open treats.

If Giving Out Treats:

• Avoid direct contact with trick-or-treaters.
• Give out treats outdoors, if possible.
• Set up a station with individual bagged treats for kids to take.

Motor Safety:

• Enter and exit driveways carefully.
• Turn on your headlights immediately when you get into the car.
• Avoid any distractions while driving.
• Slow down, especially in residential areas.
• Discourage new or inexperienced drivers from driving during Halloween.
• Watch for children crossing the street, on medians, at intersections and on curbs.

Follow these cautionary steps to avoid a setback, and enjoy the fun of Halloween. If you are looking for a safe alternative to traditional trick-or-treating, attend an outdoor Halloween event in a controlled environment with your kids. As a reminder, don’t hesitate to report any suspicious activity. If you see something, say something.

Have a safe, enjoyable and happy Halloween!

Service Equals Reward
Sheriff Gregory Tony

How can we better prepare? It is the question every public safety professional asks and the motivation behind everything we do. Better preparation allows for the best possible response to any incident. Often the incidents or disasters we prepare for are unplanned, happening with little to no warning. However, by training for the unexpected, we remain ready to respond.

While preparation is the foundation of public safety agencies, I can’t stress enough how important it is for the public to be prepared. As we observe National Preparedness Month, I recommend creating an actionable plan and setting it in motion. The four weeks of September provide an excellent opportunity to focus on the various aspects of preparedness to help keep you and your loved ones safe. 

Week One – Make A Hurricane Plan

In South Florida, it is never the wrong time to prepare for a hurricane. Gather drinking water, batteries, sanitation products and anything you and your family might need to weather a storm. Be sure there are enough supplies to last at least five days. If staying at home is not an option, know in advance where you will stay during a hurricane. For information about emergency evacuation, transportation and shelter locations, visit www.broward.org/hurricane.

Week Two – Create A Home Emergency Plan

When an emergency happens at home, ensure all family members know what to do and where to go. Create a communication plan so everyone can keep in contact. Create an evacuation plan and designate a meeting area. Take into consideration the ages and unique needs of each family member and pet. Ensure the items that may help you in an emergency, such as a fire extinguisher or smoke alarm, are working.

Week Three – Secure Your Sensitive Documents And Valuables

With a comprehensive plan in place, you can now focus on protecting sensitive documents and valuables. First, collect the documents you would need to help identify family members in the event of an emergency. Keep these and other important, sensitive documents, such as insurance papers, at home in a fireproof and waterproof box or safe.

Week Four – Teach Your Loved Ones About Preparedness
Finally, review your plans with family members. Practice evacuation drills. Take courses together to learn survival skills. BSO offers free bleeding control and CPR courses. Sign up for one at https://bit.ly/2Vyg0zC.

If each of us takes the time to prepare and stay prepared, it makes our whole community safer.

On a final note, I would be remiss in not acknowledging the 20th anniversary of 9/11. It was a day that changed everyone’s lives. I often still think of the brave first responders who started that morning like any other and rushed into the Twin Towers and Pentagon to do what they are expected to do on any given day. By continuing to honor them and all the innocent lives lost, we are keeping alive a stark reminder of the sacrifices our first responders make to protect others.

Let us not allow 9/11 to become just another date on the calendar. #NeverForget

Service Equals Reward
Sheriff Gregory Tony

Students will soon be back in school learning face to face, which may bring apprehension, excitement or a combination of both. I never take education lightly, and I am grateful that, despite the struggles I have faced to get to where I am today, education kept me on that road to success. Education shapes children's lives, which is why it is vital to continue to ensure our children are safe and feel safe in their learning environment. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind as your children head back to in-person learning.

Bullying is an issue that needs to be addressed. According to the National Bullying Prevention Center, one out of every five students reports being bullied. Your children have or will come in contact with bullying, either by experiencing it or witnessing it. Before it happens, it is important to advise your children neither to ignore it nor encourage it. Whether or not your child is a victim or a witness, they must understand the importance of reporting it.

In the age of technology, cyberbullying is a new way to bully someone. Fifteen percent of students were bullied online or through text message. It is essential to remind your children to think before they post, comment or share. Advise them never to share inappropriate photos, videos or messages about themselves or other people. Keep your children safe by advising them to keep their accounts private and never give out personal information. Always keep close tabs on what your children are doing on their electronic devices and accounts.

An unsafe environment in or out of school can affect an individual in many ways. Be aware of warning signs:

These could be signs that someone is being bullied. If you notice any changes, it is crucial to step in and help. Report every incident of bullying or suspicious behavior.

Ensure your children are aware of these resources and feel safe talking to you or a teacher:

• The SAFERWATCH app allows individuals to report suspicious activity and/or threats.
• Call the crisis hotline for teens at 211 or 954-567-TEEN (8336) to report an incident.
• In emergency situations, do not hesitate to call 911.

The safety of your children, both physical and mental, is paramount to their future success. Make communicating with your children a priority. Create a safe place at home to talk to them about bullying either at school or online.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

Water sports, outdoor events and cookouts are just a few reasons why summer in South Florida is my favorite time of year. Whether enjoying some fun in the sun, on land or in the water, follow these safety reminders so you and your loved ones can beat the heat safely.

Heat-related illnesses are of great concern, especially as temperatures rise. Remember to hydrate. Common symptoms of heat exhaustion may include excessive sweating, pale and moist skin, muscle cramps, dizziness, rapid heart rate, nausea or vomiting. If you experience any symptoms of heat-related illnesses, seek shade or go indoors and hydrate with water. If symptoms are severe or worsen, seek medical attention quickly or call 911.

Heat-related tragedies are avoidable! As outdoor temperatures rise, the temperatures inside your vehicle can be more than 50 degrees hotter. Remember:

• NEVER leave your child or small pet alone in a vehicle.
• LOOK before you lock the door of a parked car.
• CALL 911 if you see someone locked in a car.

Drowning is the leading cause of injury-related death for children ages one to five. When you are in or around water, follow these important safety reminders to keep your family safe:

• Young children should always be supervised by a responsible adult.
• Adults should avoid all distractions and actively monitor kids in the water.
• Keep small children within arm’s reach.
• Install "child-proof" fencing, locks, alarms or sensors to keep children from entering pool areas.
• Teach your kids how to swim or float on their backs for air.
• Be sure rescue equipment and a telephone are nearby in the event of an emergency.
• Learn CPR.

I want to share with you some valuable resources. The Broward Sheriff’s Office Fire Rescue Public Education Unit offers free virtual CPR classes. Sign up online at https://bsofirerescuepubliceducation.as.me/. Take advantage of a free swim coupon from SWIM Central to help offset the cost of swim lessons for children ages six months to five years. Coupons are available online at https://watersmartbroward.org/programs/kids-swim-coupon/ for all Broward County residents.

Traveling this summer? Keep vacation photos and plans private until you return. Posting on social media or letting others know you will be away may give potential burglars an opening to break into your home. Also, take advantage of BSO's Vacation Watch Program to help keep an eye on your home while you are away. This FREE program offers residents the opportunity to have their home checked on by a deputy, community service aide or volunteer. To participate, please call your local BSO district office. Visit https://www.sheriff.org/LE/ for more information.

This summer is an opportunity for us to enjoy some much-needed relaxation and fun. Follow these safety tips to help keep your summer safe and memorable.

Service Equals Reward
Sheriff Gregory Tony

In public safety, there is no room for error. As the leader of an organization responsible for ensuring the safety of everyone who lives in and visits Broward County, it is my responsibility to ensure we hold ourselves to the highest standards of accountability. That means we not only correct areas needing improvement, but we also examine ourselves to determine if what we are doing is working and, if not, make it right. Accountability is a promise I made to you on my first day as sheriff.

BSO's Office of Inspector General (OIG) is a new bureau within the Department of Professional Standards that will hold our agency accountable in all areas of our operation. The OIG provides oversight of all departments within BSO. This protocol ensures if we find problems, we work toward developing viable solutions. We are designing the OIG with transparency in mind. Our focus is to work more cohesively, fiscally responsible and operationally sound.

The OIG encompasses three divisions:

• The Division of Internal Affairs and Public Corruption ensures we thoroughly and objectively investigate allegations of misconduct against employees.
• The Division of Internal Audit identifies ways BSO can operate more efficiently and be fiscally accountable.
• The Division of Policy and Accountability conducts ongoing independent reviews of internal departments to ensure we exceed public safety standards.

Combining these three divisions under one bureau will ensure continuous review, effective communication and shared problem-solving. To spearhead this new office, I have selected Major Scott Champagne, a 23-year law enforcement veteran. During his career, Major Champagne has led BSO's Division of Internal Affairs and Public Corruption Unit. He has demonstrated experience in separating himself from agency business to review claims of wrongdoing independently.

I will always focus on improvements for public safety. This new department has a clear mission: to help everyone at BSO do our jobs more efficiently and transparently so we can better serve you.

Service Equals Reward
Sheriff Gregory Tony

Mental well-being is just as important as physical well-being. Since first responders are often the first people someone in a mental health crisis interacts with, it is critical that we know what mental illness looks like and what to do when we see it.

Dr. Vincent Van Hasselt is my mentor on mental health awareness for first responders. He is a professor at Nova Southeastern University (NSU) specializing in police psychology and a certified reserve officer with the Plantation Police Department. Dr. Van Hasselt knows firsthand that many mental health issues are silent and difficult to detect. Despite our wealth of knowledge and ability to perform our jobs safely and effectively, first responders benefit greatly from specific training dealing with mental health. As his former student, I have incorporated much of what Dr. Van Hasselt taught me into my work at the Broward Sheriff's Office.

One specific course that Dr. Van Hasselt is a big proponent of is Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training. He has been teaching it since its inception in 2002. The training educates deputies to interact appropriately with someone who has a history of mental illness and gives them a better ability to deescalate a situation when needed. CIT-trained deputies can also recognize signs of mental illness better and have an increased sensitivity to what an individual living with mental illness may be going through. I believe this training is essential for all our deputies, and I will continue to push toward a fully-trained department.

CIT training alone, though, is not enough to address the mental health challenges facing today's public safety agencies. We must also confront our own mental health challenges. Many of our first responders, which includes law enforcement, fire rescue, detention and communications personnel, are used to helping others. Yet, they have trouble knowing how to find or ask for help for themselves. In comparison to the general population, first responders are up to three times as likely to develop PTSD or related disorders. These disorders can lead to severe complications for anyone if left untreated. For first responders who interact with the public in high-stress, often traumatic situations daily, an unchecked mental health issue can be disastrous.

I needed to do something about it. When I became sheriff, Dr. Van Hasselt reached out to me. He, too, was concerned about first responders' mental health and asked BSO to partner with NSU on an important program. Together, with the aid of a Department of Justice Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) grant and the tremendous help of Judy Couwels from our BSO Employee Assistance Program, we started the Peer Support Team, a progressive new resource for my agency's employees.

We want to make it easier for someone who needs help to get it, and first responders are more likely to seek help from a peer. The Peer Support Team is comprised of 30 sworn and civilian BSO employees who are available at any time for fellow BSO employees. Our Peer Support Team members are trained in active listening skills and critical incident stress management. They can refer those in need to community resources, and they have access to licensed psychologists who can handle more clinically complicated cases. This vital program is entirely voluntary and provides support and help to employees who may be experiencing personal issues, distress from critical incidents or are suffering from stress. I am proud of everyone involved in its development.

When we treat everyone with the appropriate methods of care, compassion and understanding, we all benefit.

Service Equals Reward
Sheriff Gregory Tony

Every Sunday morning, when Pompano Beach District Captain Martin Hedelund’s twin boys were young, he would take them on drives around Broward County, showing them various landmarks and sights. Captain Hedelund would do all the talking; Dalton and Martin Jr. sat and listened. They were four years old and nonverbal - a developmental delay caused by autism.

Today, Captain Hedelund’s boys are 14. Both can speak and express themselves in different ways. They remember those trips with dad, sometimes down to the date on which they happened. “It has been cataloged in their minds all these years,” Captain Hedelund says. “While the twins are aware of what is going on, sometimes they just can’t tell us that they know. We have faced challenges as a family, but with the blessings of early diagnosis, curriculum-based learning and having two caring parents, Dalton and Martin Jr. have exceeded expectations.”

As a veteran law enforcement officer, Captain Hedelund became better at his job from his personal experiences with autism. He learned how to read body language better and pick up on important social cues. His wife, Margi, has dedicated her life to spreading awareness about autism. She is a board member of the Autism Society of Florida. She travels across the state, sometimes with her sons, to teach first responders about autism awareness and how to communicate more effectively with individuals on the spectrum.

At the Broward Sheriff’s Office, we understand the importance of autism awareness in public safety. We have instituted proactive programs and initiatives and continue to provide specialized training to assist our first responders in serving this population better.

Our most progressive initiative is the implementation of the BSO Cares program. The program provides first responders with important information about persons with disabilities so we can respond more appropriately to calls for service. Participation in the program is voluntary and available to anyone who resides in or frequently visits Broward County with a special needs diagnosis. To learn more about the program, or to register yourself or a loved one, please visit www.sheriff.org/BSOCares.

We also continue to ensure more first responders receive Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training. This unique training enhances the understanding of the signs and symptoms of someone with behavioral health issues. It also helps provide a more prepared and aware approach when interacting with an individual on the spectrum.

BSO is honored to have some incredible community partnerships with organizations such as Surfers for Autism and Autism in Flight with JetBlue. Surfers for Autism is a community event that gives individuals with autism a chance to learn to surf. Autism in Flight provides a full airport experience for children with autism and their families. They go through check-in and ticketing, security, boarding and a taxiway ride on the tarmac. The program aims to make the prospect of a commercial flight less intimidating.

At BSO, we will continue to work hard to further develop these essential programs and partnerships. Our goal is to ensure all persons are served with respect and protected in the safest possible manner.

Service Equals Reward
Sheriff Gregory Tony

I am so proud and honored to work alongside the remarkable women who serve in departments across the Broward Sheriff's Office. In recognition of Women's History Month, I want to take this opportunity to highlight just a few of the extraordinary women of BSO making a difference throughout this community.

There's a good reason Deputy Vickie Kendrick was recognized as the 2019 BSO Department of Detention Employee of the Year. She is a dedicated, hardworking and selfless individual who gives her best to everyone she encounters, both on and off the job. At work, she is a leader in every sense of the word, serving as a mentor to new deputies who join the team. While off duty, Deputy Kendrick uses her time and resources to help families in Broward. From ensuring kids have clothes and supplies each school year to assisting with gifts and meals during the holiday season, her mantra is: "I am blessed, and I want the children in the community to know that someone cares." Deputy Kendrick's commitment to service is a true testament to her personal and professional success.

For nearly 18 years, Fire Rescue Public Education Manager Courtney Palmer has helped develop a public education program that is second to none. Despite COVID-19 restricting in-person instruction, Courtney and her incredible team, who also happen to be women – Life Safety Educators Melanie Brocato, Rebecca Lowe-Johnson and Leah Wilson – have evolved and adapted, developing new, creative learning opportunities in our virtual world. Collectively, they have hosted thousands of people in their virtual firehouse tours, hands-only CPR and bleeding control courses. "We are busier than ever," Courtney says. A champion of good causes, she also chairs BSO's new LGBTQ+ Liaison Committee and donates her time, energy, and even her hair, to charitable causes. "I really should get a T-shirt that reads: Stop me from volunteering," she jokes. "But I just love helping any way I can."

I know few people who have the poise, grace, determination and leadership necessary to tackle the tremendous challenges we've all faced this past year; Captain Renee Peterson is one of them. As captain of the Neighborhood Support Team, she has been a lifeline to our communities. Since March 2020, she and her team have helped put food on the table for thousands of Broward residents through Operation Helping Hands, a partnership with Feeding South Florida. During the social justice protests last summer, Captain Peterson's focus was rooted in quelling unrest, listening to our communities and creating new opportunities for understanding. Today, she leads BSO's groundbreaking Social Justice Task Force. "We all benefit when we work together to build a better understanding of each other," she says. Day or night, Captain Peterson is out in the community listening, collaborating and working together to establish positive change.

In her 26 years with BSO, Jennifer Bourgouin serves as our agency's Emergency Management Program Coordinator. Providing essential administrative and managerial support for the Emergency Management Program, Jennifer faced a new challenge this past year with the COVID-19 pandemic. Accustomed to short-term, in-person activations in the Sheriff's Emergency Operation Center (SEOC), Jennifer was able to adapt quickly, successfully implementing a remote emergency response. "I am very proud of how we came together as a response team," she says. "Every disaster is different, but I'm confident that through our training and preparedness efforts, we can handle anything." As our battle against COVID-19 persists, Jennifer's supportive efforts continue in the SEOC.

The remarkable women highlighted here are just a few of the many others who serve across BSO. Their dedication to service is unrivalled. I genuinely believe that our organization and our community are better because of their service.

Service Equals Reward
Sheriff Gregory Tony

Three years have passed since the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. The memories of the 17 innocent lives taken from us on that terrible day live on in our hearts and our actions. Never again. Those two words gain more importance as time passes. As the freshman class from that year graduates and moves on to new and exciting endeavors, our work to safeguard our schools continues.

Training and preparedness are vital to that mission. As one of the nation's largest sheriff's offices, we strive to be the best equipped and most prepared organization in the country. Today, I am happy to say that we are exceeding standards and continuously raising the bar.

After a thorough, critical and honest self-evaluation, we have introduced numerous improvements and initiatives to strengthen our training and readiness. The Broward Sheriff's Office is the first agency in Florida to have a nationally-certified active shooter training unit. In collaboration with our federal partners, BSO has certified instructors in Active Shooter and Basic Tactical Medical Response, the FBI ALERRT Program and Incident Command Structure. And for the first time in BSO history, we have broken ground on a state-of-the-art training center.

These changes are significantly contributing to safer schools and safer communities. But it's just the beginning. I am excited to share some details about BSO's new Department of Preparedness and Response, a critical evolution that better addresses today's public safety challenges and enhances operational readiness.

Established in June 2020, the department centralizes our agency's training efforts and the deployment of our special operations units to maximize response capabilities. Previously, training had been fragmented, leading to inconsistency and lack of continuity in training protocols. By putting training under one umbrella, we optimize our capabilities, resulting in superior service to Broward County. The new department also provides for greater accountability. Whereas previous training records would only show someone attended training, each person is now independently evaluated on course performance objectives.

Another aspect of the department is the new Threat Intervention Tactics Analytics Network (TITAN). This intelligence-led policing unit works to mitigate terrorism and acts of violence throughout Broward County. Comprised of a full-time SWAT team — the first in BSO history — the unit provides high visibility and tactical security in critical infrastructure locations, including airports and seaports, throughout the county. Should there be a critical, mass casualty incident, this highly-trained unit will facilitate an immediate tactical deployment.

TITAN personnel also work to mentor others throughout BSO. TITAN responds to any incident that requires four or more deputies. The team reinforces training and helps establish proper procedures and protocols during small-scale incidents so deputies are better prepared and ready to respond appropriately during more critical events.

"Establishing Incident Command is vital during critical incidents," said Colonel Steve Robson, who leads the Department of Preparedness and Response. "The onsite training provides deputies with the opportunity to experience the type of response necessary should we have another incident like Marjory Stoneman Douglas. Everyone knows what to do and can perform as expected."

The department is also ensuring our first responders have what they need to perform their jobs. As other public safety agencies, government entities and healthcare systems scrambled to procure critical personal protective equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Preparedness and Response, in partnership with the county, is establishing a strategic stockpile of PPE for all first responders in Broward. This is another first time preparedness initiative created by BSO. As the county's lead public safety agency, we should never rely on state or federal partners to provide the equipment necessary to ensure our community's safety.

The department is aligned to ensure preparedness and accountability to address today's public safety threats. Their structure draws attention as a flagship model for other public safety agencies around the country looking to implement similar changes. I am proud of our efforts and will always work toward implementing best practices to safeguard this community.

Service Equals Reward
Sheriff Gregory Tony

On January 5, I will take the oath of office to continue serving as your sheriff. My swearing-in ceremony will be a much less extravagant affair than those of sheriffs' past due to COVID-19 restrictions. Perhaps an intimate setting is more appropriate, regardless. The oath of office is a sacred trust. It is a promise I make to myself and my fellow first responders. It is also a promise I make to you.

I recently removed the placard with my name on it from the front of my office door. I replaced it with a more suitable designation: "The People's Office." The sheriff and all the men and women of the Broward Sheriff's Office work for you and our mission every day, to provide this county with the best public safety services in the country.

When I assumed command of BSO nearly two years ago, I did so with the promise of putting public safety before all else. In just a short time, we've made significant progress in achieving our goals. Better training, better equipment and the introduction of new technologies mean Broward County is safer today.

I have also worked with command staff and community leaders to create a more transparent and accountable sheriff's office while providing public safety all residents can trust.

I've appointed new members to the BSO Professional Standards Committee, including members from the community, to review internal disciplinary matters. I have established a Use of Force Review Board, the first ever in BSO's history. I've made it clear time and again, I will never tolerate egregious use of force under my leadership.

Our Social Justice Task Force recently met for the first time. The group, comprised of BSO employees, community stakeholders, organizers and leaders, will build relationships, gain trust and bridge the gap with the communities we serve. The task force will meet every other month to listen, learn and cooperate toward the shared goal of a safer, collaborative community.

While we have achieved success, we can and will continue to do better. I will spend my next four years in office the same as my first two, working in the best interest of the people I serve.

This year, I am establishing the BSO Office of Inspector General (OIG). The department will ensure BSO runs in the most efficient, economical and responsible way possible. The OIG will ensure misconduct allegations made against employees are thoroughly investigated, identify ways BSO can be more cost-efficient in all areas of operation and conduct independent reviews of every department within BSO to ensure we exceed public safety standards. This is just one more way BSO will be accountable and transparent.

As we enter a new year, I want to say thank you. Thank you for entrusting me with the responsibility to lead BSO into the future. Thank you because this is your office as much as it is mine. Together, we will continue our great work and focus on taking the necessary steps toward keeping public safety a priority.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

This year has been met with a whirlwind of emotion. For some, fear, loss, loneliness, isolation and anxiousness may define their year. For others, joy, appreciation, comfort and family. And for many, a mixture of both. But if 2020 taught us one thing, it’s that we always accomplish more as a unified community.

As the year unfolded, COVID-19 changed how all of us live and work. We have all had to find ways to adapt to what has become our new normal. Yet, despite the many changes in work and personal lives, countless good people in Broward County have continued to take every opportunity to give back, help meet a need, show support, extend resources and virtually come together.

Despite the push for physical distancing, I’ve witnessed people taking every opportunity to give back, help meet a need, show support, extend resources and virtually come together.

As a public safety agency, we know public safety isn’t only about protecting our citizens but striving to better our communities. I am moved by the overwhelming generosity and heartfelt acts of kindness from the men and women of BSO. Aside from their primary responsibilities, these individuals looked for alternative ways to serve this community.

From helping a homeless mother and child pay for a hotel stay for a week to helping a single mother who lost her job get her electricity turned back on, our deputies found ways to help where it was needed most. Other deputies gifted a homeless father of two young children with new shoes and socks for his kids. Another employee from our Civil Division spearheaded a food collection drive resulting in the donation of more than 800 pounds of food to provide for those in need. These acts demonstrate true care and commitment and highlight the exceptional ways in which our personnel go above and beyond – not just today, but every day.

These generous acts of kindness were also displayed by the community towards law enforcement. From countless cards, crafts, prayers and delicious meals donated from local restaurants and community residents, our agency has received an overwhelming show of support and appreciation from this community. A young 11-year-old boy named Zechariah, who runs in honor of fallen heroes, added two more miles to his 609-mile record to remember the lives of Deputy Shannon Bennett and Lt. Al Rengifo, who we lost earlier this year. During times of protests and nationwide unrest, we had an opportunity to listen. We prayed together. We dialogued. We came together in support of equality and justice for all.

Witnessing these genuine acts of goodness take place across this county during a time when it is needed most has been a heartwarming experience. People simply helping people. People whose names they may never know and who they may never meet. But giving back and showing support because it’s the benevolent thing to do. It’s things like this that truly make Broward County a special place to live.

At BSO, we, too, have worked through this pandemic and looked for opportunities to identify areas where we may help lessen the burden on residents across Broward County. Through Operation Helping Hands and our food drives, BSO has partnered with community-based organizations to provide groceries and individual meals to thousands of individuals and families experiencing financial hardships countywide. This assistance will continue as long as there is a need in this community.

In the spirit of the season, we have continued our tradition of partnering with local organizations and the Broward Sheriff’s Advisory Council to provide turkeys and Thanksgiving meal baskets to families in need. For the first time, our Department of Detention personnel volunteered to distribute more than 300 Thanksgiving meals donated by Calvary Chapel to families of inmates housed at Broward jails. The hope was to ease the financial burden and alleviate the stress associated with having a loved one incarcerated.

Our holiday outreach will continue during the month of December in partnership with the Sheriff’s Foundation of Broward County. Though our annual in-person Shop with the Sheriff event is canceled, we still believe it is important to reward students who excel in and out of the classroom. This year, 400 deserving youth will receive a Walmart gift card along with a new toy donated by BSO personnel as part of our agency-wide toy drive.

And with that, I say what else? I want to go the extra mile and extend this offer to you. If you know a family who could use some support and cheer this holiday season, BSO wants to know about it. For a chance to be selected, please follow me on social media @bsosherifftony and send a message about why this family should be chosen. The winner will be contacted by December 13.

I’m inspired by this community’s display of unity and brotherhood. I couldn’t be more proud and honored to serve alongside such dedicated and incredible people. On behalf of the men and women of the Broward Sheriff’s Office, from our family to yours, we wish you a safe, healthy and fulfilling holiday season!

At the Broward Sheriff’s Office, we strive to exceed all expectations and live up to the highest industry standards so we can provide Broward County with the best, most prepared and accountable public safety services. I am excited and proud to announce that BSO received final approval for full law enforcement accreditation last month by the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation (CFA).

As many of you know, BSO lost its accreditation last year due to systemic failures in leadership related to active shooter preparedness and response protocols regarding the 2017 Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport shooting and the 2018 tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. While accreditation is not mandatory, it is nonetheless vital in maintaining the high standards of a modern, progressive public safety agency. Accreditation is awarded upon the successful demonstration of excellence in leadership, resource management, service delivery and adherence to a body of stringent standards, which represent the very best in law enforcement today.

Disappointed in the loss of accreditation, it fueled us as an organization to quickly rebuild the trust and confidence we lost and return to being a model of what a public safety agency should look like. Instead of waiting the full two years to reapply for reaccreditation, I requested an earlier review by the commission, who performed a thorough review and assessment earlier this year. Thanks to advancements in our active shooter training, changes in policy and protocols, investments in technology and most importantly our dedicated employees, the CFA assessors found BSO to be 100 percent in compliance with all mandatory standards. CFA Assessment Team Leader Sgt. Frank Ruggiero further noted, “The Broward County Sheriff’s Office appears to be an excellently managed agency with members that are extremely proud to be part of it.”

In addition, I am honored to recognize the attainment of two additional accreditations earned earlier this summer. The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) recommended BSO’s Regional Communications for reaccreditation. BSO’s Regional Communications is the largest CALEA accredited communications center under the Public Safety Communications Accreditation Program. BSO’s Pretrial Services and Probation divisions also earned full reaccreditation from The Florida Corrections Accreditation Commission (FCAC) for their compliance with rigorous standards and industry best practices.

In total, BSO holds, or maintains, 16 accreditations across the agency including the Department of Law Enforcement, Department of Detention, Community Programs, Crime Lab, Biometrics Unit, Training Division, Regional Communications, Purchasing and Fire Rescue and Emergency Services.

I am proud of the work the men and women of BSO perform daily to protect and serve the Broward community. I pledge to continue to hold our organization to the highest standards. To learn more about our accreditations, please visit us online at www.sheriff.org/Administration/Pages/Accreditation.aspx or call the Division of Policy & Accountability at 954-831-8930.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

It is with great excitement that I announce the launch of the Broward Sheriff’s Office Social Justice Task Force (SJTF), a civilian and law enforcement collaboration that will help our Broward communities achieve greater justice and equity.  

The COVID-19 pandemic has altered our way of life and how we go about our daily routines. For many, kitchen and dining room tables have become the new office, classroom or social meeting place. Virtual is the new reality, and while it allows us to continue to work, learn and socialize safely, it comes with its own unique set of challenges and dangers. 

As we transition to using more online platforms, scammers, hackers and other cybercriminals are finding new, lucrative and sometimes dangerous ways to target people. At the Broward Sheriff’s Office, in addition to ensuring the safety of our physical streets, we are also dedicated to protecting our online neighborhoods — especially when it comes to the safety of our children. 

With Broward public schools having begun their year fully remote, kids have had to adapt to extended hours behind their digital devices and the increased risks associated with them. It is important that we protect our children’s ability to learn and play online safely. 

Recently, we’ve seen an increase in phishing scams through email and text messages. Aside from malware, ransomware, spyware and other dangers designed to steal personal information and money, these scams also pose a significant risk to children, who are perfect targets for identity theft because of their clean credit histories. In 2017, more than one million children were victims of identity theft or fraud, and that number continues to grow. 

In addition, with social distancing as the new norm, socialization has turned even more digital than ever before. Parents must pay special attention to who their children are interacting with online and in what manner. Unfortunately, cyberbullying is rampant and has been linked to a variety of negative effects, including anxiety, depression and substance abuse. 

Here are some important reminders on what you can do to help keep your children safe:

We are living in unprecedented times with unfamiliar threats. But by being vigilant and prudent, we can keep our kids and our community safe from cybercrime. 

Sheriff Gregory Tony

This year, our nation – our world – has been faced with unprecedented challenges. From a global health crisis to civil unrest and the reminder of inequalities for people of color, our strength, our faith and our wills have all been tested. As we enter the eight month of 2020, I gain strength from the opportunities before us. The opportunity to listen. To grow. To mend. And to change. In the last 18 months, I have made significant changes that focus on building stronger community relationships and restoring trust by bringing accountability and transparency to the Broward Sheriff’s Office. I have revised policy to establish a Use of Force Review Board, appointed new members to the Professional Standards Committee, established progressive training protocols and improved recruitment practices to ensure we are hiring the most qualified applicants. Despite these advancements, we must do more.

Recently, I’ve had several opportunities to sit down with community leaders and advocates for change to listen to their concerns and discuss areas of strength and opportunities for growth. Our dialogues were progressive, and the BSO command staff and I welcomed their input.

The focus of our discussions was on policing practices. Today, law enforcement remains the only branch of government that is required to respond to every situation where there is an immediate need or threat. Often, these needs are met by people in crisis, who are hurting, who have been wronged, are suffering or have been defrauded. Our deputies are trained in conflict resolution and de-escalation; the majority (soon to be all) are trained in crisis intervention. Yet, as a profession, our policing approaches must continue to evolve.

Since becoming sheriff, I have made a commitment to investing resources in areas where they are needed most. Aside from the aforementioned changes, I have restructured the Law Enforcement Trust Fund process to ensure it is more fair and equitable to serve nonprofit organizations that focus on issues vital to our community. We have established the BSO Legacy Program offering scholarships and internships to minority individuals interested in a career in public safety. We have established a Youth Mentorship Program focused on mentoring youth and developing them into strong, responsible civically-engaged adults.

Change will not come overnight. However, these changes are just the beginning of establishing systemic solutions toward a more unified Broward. I will continue to make progressive changes for the benefit of this community. At BSO, we are listening. We are evolving. We are prioritizing the needs of the people we serve. And we are committed to working together with you to maintain trust and strengthen our community.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

The appalling murder of George Floyd reopened deep and painful wounds in our country. For too long, many people of color have suffered through a separate and unequal system of justice and have been unjust victims of police brutality.

Incidents like this cut particularly deep with me. Before I was Broward’s first black sheriff, I was a black kid from the inner city thrown to the ground by a police officer with a knee pinned to the back of my neck. I understand the distrust some black and brown Americans feel toward law enforcement. We’ve let them down for far too long and have done too little to root out systemic racism from our ranks.

BUT I SAY THIS TO YOU: ENOUGH IS ENOUGH.

I know we must work hard to rebuild trust with our communities, but changes are being made. Since I became sheriff, I have worked to build public trust by bringing accountability and transparency to this agency and to this community.

Our deputies are held accountable for their actions. On four different occasions, I’ve terminated deputies for use of excessive force. I’ve appointed new members to the Professional Standards Committee, which includes minority members from the community, to review internal disciplinary matters. In addition, I am establishing a Use of Force Review Board, the first ever in BSO’s history. Egregious use of force will not be tolerated under my leadership.

We continue to ensure we are hiring the right people, including more minorities and women, and are providing them with the appropriate training. We are reintegrating a comprehensive Early Warning System to detect potential behaviors that may cause harm to the public. In addition, every deputy in our department continues to be trained in de-escalation techniques along with safe arrest methods. I am also allocating approximately $1 million to implement racial equity and implicit bias training programs. All Department of Law Enforcement deputies have body worn cameras and are required to activate them prior to any interaction with civilians.

I also know one negative incident can erode years of trust. At BSO, community policing is not merely a buzzword. We are working side by side with our communities, listening to your concerns and identifying problems and solutions for BSO involvement in the neighborhoods we serve. This is why our deputies now get out of their patrol cars and walk the neighborhoods they protect, interacting with residents, as part of our Park, Walk and Talk program.

At BSO, we’re making significant changes, and we are one of the most accountable and transparent public safety agencies in the nation. Yet I know there is still work to be done. I challenge our communities not to let incidents like what happened in Minneapolis divide us. I pledge as sheriff to continue to work with our communities and hold ourselves to the highest standards of professionalism and accountability. While I am I’m deeply saddened by the death of George Floyd and others killed unjustly, know this: their deaths will not be forgotten. May their legacies live through our progress.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

Before I begin this message, I want to take a moment to remember a beloved member of the Broward Sheriff’s Office family, Communications Operator III Nikima Thompson, who sadly lost her brave battle with COVID-19 on May 4. Nikima was a dedicated 16-year veteran of BSO and the first communications operator to die in the line of duty in Florida. We pay tribute to her sacrifice and honor her service to this community. She is survived by her mother, Geraldine Wilson, who is also battling COVID-19; her father, Herman Wilson; her sister, Gina Stewart; and her four children, Aran Jr., Isaiah, Justin and Heaven. Rest in peace, Nikima. You are greatly missed.

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to major disruptions in our traditional way of life and resulted in tremendous hardships for many. For the past several months, we have confronted this unprecedented challenge. As we navigate these uncertain times, we do so having learned the power and value of community and the virtues of working together for a common good.

It has been truly remarkable to see the Broward community step up and come together as one. Friends and strangers alike have united, largely by staying apart, to help slow the spread of this deadly virus and protect the most vulnerable among us. The men and women of BSO share in that commitment. We play a unique and critical role in combatting this crisis. We are not only ensuring the safety of the public, but we are also extending our assistance beyond calls for service to provide support for the overall wellbeing of Broward County.

Let me tell you some ways BSO is meeting community needs:

• The pandemic has led to tough financial difficulties with many people struggling to provide the most basic food necessities for their families. BSO has established Operation Helping Hands whereby we partner with community-based organizations and Feeding South Florida to help provide groceries to those in need. We are also delivering food to the doorsteps of our senior citizens who are unable to leave their homes.
• We know through our community policing initiatives that small and simple acts of kindness can have huge and lasting impact. While social distancing has prevented us from coming together, we have been honored to participate in birthday parades and the like to ensure important milestones are not forgotten, and instead are occasions to remember. Similarly, we’ve participated in heartwarming displays of support for our hospital partners who are on the front lines fighting this virus with us. It has been an absolute pleasure to provide some joy and see the smiles these parades have brought.
• We have witnessed our deputies and other employees go above and beyond the call of duty to help others who are struggling. Recently, deputies observed a mother and her six-year-old son sleeping in their car. After learning they were homeless, the deputies got them a hotel room for the week and bought them groceries. As of our last contact with the woman, she was able to gain employment and is working toward getting on her feet. It’s an honor to work alongside such good and decent people.
• Our participation in the Law Enforcement Torch Run has been a long-standing tradition of ours to support Special Olympics. While the run was canceled this year, we still showed our love and support for these inspirational athletes and participated in virtual runs across the county. As an organization, we remain committed to supporting our community partners and will continue to find creative ways to do so.
• These are just a few examples that demonstrate how together we accomplish more. These past few months have presented us with unexpected circumstances and challenges. While our commitment as an organization to work alongside this community to serve and meet their needs is not new, it is stronger now than ever before.

Service Equals Reward
Sheriff Gregory Tony

​Deputy Bennett, 39, embodied what a law enforcement officer should be, serving BSO and Broward citizens for more than 12 years. His courage, professionalism and a fierce commitment to doing what is right radiated in everything he did. A graduate of Deerfield Beach High School, Shannon joined BSO on June 6, 2007 as a detention deputy. His brother, Darren, had joined BSO as a detention deputy five years prior and supported Shannon’s efforts throughout his early days at the agency. With a desire to further his career in public safety, Shannon became cross certified, and in 2013, he was reassigned to the Department of Law Enforcement and served as a road patrol deputy for nearly six years in Lauderdale Lakes.

In January 2019, Shannon returned to the very city in which he grew up. He was assigned to the BSO Deerfield Beach District as a beloved school resource officer at Deerfield Beach Elementary School. 

Shannon considered BSO his second family. With the friendship, support and guidance of his coworkers, He confidently served as an openly gay deputy and used his platform to help bridge the gap between the LGBTQ community and law enforcement. For seven years, Shannon worked and walked in the Stonewall Parade. I had the pleasure of working directly with him on future projects related to integrating and uniting our agency with the LGBTQ community, both internally and externally. He was a consummate professional who desired to see BSO continue to move forward.

Shannon leaves behind a family for whom he cared deeply. He is survived by his fiancé, Jonathan Frey; his mother, Barbara Bennett and his brother, Darren, who left BSO in 2013 and is currently a campus pastor for Calvary Chapel North Miami.

When it is once again safe for the community to be together, BSO, along with his family, will host a memorial service in honor of his life and service. We hope you will join us.

Shannon’s death also serves as a somber reminder that this deadly virus knows no bounds. While we practice social distancing and follow stay at home orders as a community, our first responders bravely serve on the front lines, knowing that they put themselves at increased risk each day to keep us all safe. Please pray our men and women continue to return home safely.

As we continue our fight against the coronavirus, remember: we are all in this together! Let’s continue to follow the current guidelines until we overcome the threat of this deadly disease and resume our normal lifestyles. In the meantime, please be safe.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected all of us in Broward County, throughout the United States and around the world. We have had to make drastic changes in the way we interact with others.

We each have a social responsibility to do our part to stop the spread of and combat this deadly disease. Though we are all hopefully practicing social distancing, this pandemic has brought us closer. As a community, we are resolved to help each other and provide assistance where it’s needed.

While the crisis is new to us, our training, preparedness and level of service remains strong at the Broward Sheriff’s Office. Our first responders are equipped with personal protective equipment and are prepared to respond to any and all incidents in a safe and effective manner.

We are also working with our community partners to direct valuable assistance to where it is needed most. BSO is connecting with community-based organizations to help meet the needs of senior citizens in our community to reduce their exposure to the COVID-19 virus.

We understand you may have many questions and concerns. Those needing non-emergency assistance should call 954-764-4357 (HELP). We have also created a dedicated resource to communicate important information to you: www.sheriff.org/SheriffTony. In the event of an emergency, please dial 911. Our Communications personnel are prepared and ready to help you.

How we, as a community, deal with the COVID-19 pandemic today will determine how we live tomorrow. There are important measures you can take to help during this crisis:

• Stay at home, and follow the orders from local, state and national officials.
• Follow health directives and suggested precautions.
• Practice social distancing if you must leave your home.
• Call and check in on those who you know live alone.
• Support local businesses.
• Stay informed.

There is no easy answer or quick fix to this crisis, but remember: we are all in this together!

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

My aunt was a police officer for the city of Philadelphia. I didn't know it then, but she was a trailblazer: a proud woman in a job historically carried out by men. There have been many brave women in law enforcement who have paved the way toward progress, and we are still moving forward.

The Broward Sheriff's Office employs many women who have dedicated their lives to making a significant impact both on and off duty. I am proud of these women and the countless contributions they make to our communities every day.

As we celebrate National Women's History Month, I'd like to introduce just a few of the women who serve within BSO.

Colonel Nichole Anderson is a woman of many firsts. The Fort Lauderdale native graduated from Dillard High School in the top 10 percent of her class and has been a fixture in our community ever since. She joined BSO in 1996 and rose through the ranks. In 2011, she became the first African-American female district chief. In 2018, she became the first female BSO law enforcement deputy to attend and graduate from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia - graduating from the 274^th session. In January 2019, I had the distinct pleasure of promoting her as the agency's first ever female colonel and, most recently, she was promoted to serve as the undersheriff, which marks the first time a female has held this position in the agency's 105-year history. Colonel Anderson's commitment to selfless service and integrity allowed her to succeed in what was traditionally a male-dominated profession. It's an honor to have her serve as second in command.

It's also an honor to work with individuals such as Deputy Kelli Covet. Along with her trusted canine partner, Macie, the dynamic duo have dedicated countless hours to search for and locate missing and endangered people, including children and the elderly. Aside from being a certified bloodhound, in June 2019, K9 Macie became the agency's first ever certified therapy dog. The work Deputy Covet and K9 Macie do each and every day makes a significant difference in the lives of people throughout the community. Aside from their daily first-responder duties, they regularly attend countywide events to build lasting connections with the community and assist people who may be experiencing crisis, tragedy, trauma or who are having a difficult time in life.

Detention Deputy Judie Nance is a women with a variety of hidden talents. Her daily responsibilities are to provide for the care, custody and control of inmates in our jail system; however, in her spare time, she is an author. Her first children's book, "Short and Virtuous Bed-time Stories for Children," helps parents introduce children to the essentials of good moral character: responsibility, courage, honesty, perseverance, faith and friendship. Her second book, "Enlightened," teaches young girls to stand up for what is right. Both in and outside of work, Deputy Nance demonstrates compassion and commitment for all that she does.

Fire Prevention Officer (FPO) Cindy Taffel is the epitome of determination and perseverance. She loves her job, but she also loves to express herself through food. A three-time cancer survivor, Cindy understands that life is too short not to do what you love. She not only loves cooking, but is an award-winning prodigy. With no formal training, Cindy took home the World Food Championship in seafood and later won the $15,000 prize on the Food Network show Cooks vs. Cons, where she beat out a formally-trained chef. FPO Taffle is an inspiration to us all.

Claudine Carter Pereira, the director of the BSO Crime Lab, proves you can be and do anything you want if you put your mind to it. The 21-year year BSO veteran leads an internationally-accredited crime lab that processes approximately 25,000 cases each year. But she's known to her co-workers as the "Forensic Ballerina." A former professional dancer with both a ballet and modern contemporary company, Director Pereira studied at the premier Joffrey Ballet in New York City. When's she's not helping solve cases or dancing on her own, she serves as a dance instructor to local children and adults.

As you can see, BSO is comprised of some very unique, talented women. I want to thank all the women of BSO for their service and dedication to keeping our communities safe. Their special talents both in and outside of work are truly commendable. We all owe a debt of gratitude for everything they do.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

Happy New Year!

January marks my one-year anniversary as your sheriff. The leadership of the Broward Sheriff’s Office has made a lot of changes that we sincerely believe will increase the safety for all of Broward County. During the past year, we have implemented many new initiatives that we trust are addressing important public safety needs and the needs of our communities.

Now it is time for your feedback. We don’t want to know how WE are doing. We want to know how YOU are doing. Do you feel safer? Have our new initiatives helped you? Do you believe your children are safer in school? How have our deputies assisted you? What is important to you that we may not be addressing? Tell us everything - we want to know.

Open communication with our communities is important to our success. We welcome your feedback and encourage you to send us your comments to ask_the_sheriff@sheriff.org.

Since taking command of this organization, I have demonstrated my commitment to being transparent. We value your input, and I firmly believe that together we will work toward meeting all the needs of this community.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

​What a year it has been for the Broward Sheriff's Office. When I took command of this organization, I pledged to put public safety first. I am proud of the improvements we have made and the initiatives we have implemented toward our mission of providing high quality services to Broward County. Here are some highlights:

SCHOOL SAFETY: We have worked diligently to improve the safety of our schools.

We have launched the Real Time Crime Center, which gives us the ability to monitor surveillance cameras across all Broward County Public Schools. We have expanded the Guardian Program and developed an active shooter training curriculum and video. We have provided Bleeding Control Kits to all road patrol deputies as well as public schools.

TRAINING AND PREPAREDNESS: Our training division and course curriculums reflect today's public safety priorities.

We have reallocated one million dollars to increase the manpower of our training division. We are the first agency in the state of Florida to have a nationally-certified active shooter training unit, and in collaboration with our federal partners, we have certified instructors in Active Shooter and Basic Tactical Medical Response, FBI ALERRT Program and Incident Command Structure. We have invested $500,000 toward enhanced Racial Equity and Cultural Diversity Training and increased the number of deputies trained in crisis intervention. For the first time in BSO history, construction for a state-of-the-art Regional Training Center is underway which will provide for more intensive, frequent training to address today's public safety challenges.

PROMOTIONS: Our agency's leaders are experienced and are a better reflection of the communities we serve.

I understand firsthand the importance of diversity in public safety. We have the most diverse command staff in the agency's 104-year history. I believe experience is a priceless resource, and I have promoted more than 200 employees from within the organization.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS: We have implemented progressive community policing initiatives and are listening to your needs.

Our countywide Neighborhood Support Team is designed to make law enforcement more visible and reduce fear in our communities. We are focusing on collaboration and engagement from all community stakeholders to unify efforts to meet community needs.

LAW ENFORCEMENT TRUST FUND (LETF): Accountability and distribution of funds will be more fair and equitable.

We have increased the opportunity and expansion of funds provided to support nonprofit organizations through the LETF.

INVESTING IN OUR FUTURE: We have expanded youth programs and opportunities to further develop the ambition of our young people.

We have established the Bureau of Recruiting to ensure we are hiring the most diverse, qualified personnel. We have developed the BSO Legacy Program, which provides scholarships, sponsorships and internship opportunities. The program's objective focuses on helping minority students reach their goal of a career in public safety.

I am proud of the work we have accomplished thus far and am excited about what's to come. The men and women of this organization are committed to their duties and embrace their responsibilities as public safety professionals.

As your sheriff, I am humbled at the outpouring of support from all of Broward's communities. As we move forward, we will continue to listen to your needs, demonstrate transparency and maintain accountability while never losing sight of our public safety mission.

If you'd like to learn more about our new initiatives, visit us online at www.sheriff.org/SheriffTony.

From our BSO family to yours, have a happy, healthy and safe holiday season.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

​At the Broward Sheriff's Office, we've come so far since the first African American, Deputy James Primous, joined the ranks in 1951. We've made great strides in diversifying the agency at every level to reflect Broward's vibrant melting pot.

As a person who has experienced inequality firsthand, I understand the importance of diversity in public safety. In order to serve Broward citizens to the best of our abilities, we must mirror our communities. Failure to do so — a problem public safety agencies have historically faced — often leads to avoidable consequences, including a lack of understanding, communication and, ultimately, distrust.

I believe what makes us different as individuals make us more complete as a whole. And I am committed to making our entire agency more reflective of Broward County. I have increased the hiring of minority deputies and firefighters, two areas where minorities have been underrepresented in the past. Today, more than 60 percent of the agency is comprised of minorities — greater than the percentage of Broward as a whole. More than 40 percent are African American; in addition, nearly 20 percent are Hispanic. BSO also proudly employs many strong, dedicated women — who have made up more than half of our recent promotions — and people from a diverse set of religious beliefs and sexual orientations throughout the agency.

We're accomplishing all this through a variety of means, from greater outreach to communities that have been underrepresented in the past to the creation of new initiatives, mentorship and scholarship programs that reach our youth and promote careers in public safety.

BSO now has the most diverse command staff in the agency's 104-year history. Recently, I had the distinct honor of promoting Colonel Nichole Anderson as the first African American and the first woman to serve as undersheriff in the agency. I have also had the pleasure of naming BSO's first two colonels of Cuban descent, Colonel Oscar Llerena and Colonel James Reyes.

Make no mistake, however. These leaders are not in their positions because of the color of their skin, gender, religion or sexual identity. They were promoted because of their qualifications. Collectively, they have devoted decades of selfless and dignified service to BSO and the citizens of this great county.

When I became sheriff, I promised to do what was best for the agency and bring forth the best personnel to keep our communities safe. We have so many talented people in this agency, and so many are worthy of positions of leadership. What I have done is simply level the playing field for everyone and provide qualified individuals an opportunity to rise to the top.

As always, we are looking for good men and women to join our team. If you think you have what it takes, visit us at jobs.sheriff.org.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

When time is of the essence and lives are on the line, it is the job of law enforcement to respond to an incident quickly, decisively and effectively. With the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School tragedy still weighing heavily on our minds, Broward residents are unfortunately all too aware that any delay in action can cost lives.

Since taking leadership of the Broward Sheriff’s Office, my team and I developed and implemented proactive public safety initiatives to keep our schools safe. Our efforts have proven to be pivotal in strengthening our school security.

Our mission is far from complete. We are always striving to improve and stay at the forefront of emerging technology — utilizing every resource available and maximizing its impact. Recently, we launched the brand new, state-of-the-art Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) — a powerful crime fighting and crime prevention center that is safeguarding our schools.

The RTCC gives us the ability to monitor real life situations in real time, Today, BSO has direct access to live video feeds, monitoring nearly 10,000 cameras in more than 260 public schools and administrative buildings, with plans in the works with Broward County Public Schools to add several thousand more in the near future. Should an incident arise, we begin working a case as soon as it’s reported — saving valuable time. It has the capability of protecting lives and preventing incidents of mass violence.

The center is equipped with cutting-edge technology that allows us to identify and investigate potentially dangerous threats to our community better and take swift and effective action to neutralize the threat and mitigate damage. Because of the RTCC, we can obtain critical information and relay it to the responding deputies within minutes or even seconds — far less time and much more accurate than in the past.

Originally housed in a 350 square foot office space at the Public Safety Building, the new RTCC operates in a 2,600 square foot area. It has a 40-foot front-video wall, a 16-foot side-video wall and 20 workstations for RTCC personnel. The estimated total cost for the RTCC is $2 million. It is being paid for by reappropriating funds within our budget and acquiring grants.

Since January, the RTCC has conducted roughly 150 drills within Broward County Public Schools to test the camera system. RTCC personnel have also monitored and given tactical guidance to officers at the scene of numerous incidents within the schools, including lockdowns for crimes happening on and off school property.

Though focused right now on our schools, we are seeking to expand into partnerships with private businesses, houses of worship and anyone interested in protecting their community. If you would like to participate, please visit us at https://www.sheriff.org/Documents/RTCCvideoShareInterestForm.pdf.

Service Equals Reward
Sheriff Gregory Tony

I have dedicated my career in law enforcement to making a positive impact on the lives of the citizens in the community. Now, as sheriff, it is the foundation of how I run the Broward Sheriff’s Office. I have seen how small interactions with the public achieve huge safety results, so I have directed our deputies to get out of their squad cars, walk the streets and connect with people. These interactions go a long way toward building trust and respect, raising awareness and bridging any gaps that may exist. When we are more visible and hands-on, people feel more comfortable sharing concerns, providing helpful tips and ultimately contributing to a safer and brighter future for all.

With this in mind, BSO is ready to take community policing to the next level. I’m excited to announce the launch of the Neighborhood Support Teams (NST), an innovative new initiative focused on further strengthening law enforcement and community relationships.

The NST, which will be comprised of law enforcement representatives, will work with various members of the community to develop a strong network of representation and involvement. This includes leaders, business stakeholders, faith-based institutions, school board officials, activists, mental health professionals, social workers, residents, youth groups and high school students.

These individuals and groups are the eyes and ears of their neighborhoods. They have the pulse of the community, understand their strengths and weaknesses and provide an intimate perspective on the needs of their area beyond routine calls for service.

The NST’s responsibilities are far-reaching and extend to every corner of the county. Our representatives will host monthly meetings with stakeholders to maintain engagement and continue to foster positive working relationships. In addition, they will play an active role in various community events, experiences and partnerships.

Teams will provide numerous educational opportunities, including hosting public safety seminars and cultural diversity discussions, and providing education on other important topics, such as civilian rights pertaining to policing encounters and civilian active shooter response protocols.

They will also help connect varied groups, including veterans, the elderly, individuals suffering from mental health problems and those struggling to put food on their table, with vital resources to help provide them with the assistance they need. And we are focusing on our youth through back-to-school initiatives and mentorship opportunities.

To learn more about Neighborhood Support Teams, please visit us at sheriff.org/nst.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

Public safety has always been my highest priority. In the eight months since becoming your sheriff, the Broward Sheriff’s Office has worked hard to address one of the greatest concerns of Broward County – school safety.

BSO deputies have undergone intensive training in preparation for any public safety threat. We are working together with the school system to ensure our schools are a safe place to learn for every child in every school. We have made changes, but we will not rest on our accomplishments; we will continue to find better ways to protect our schools.

In response to the recommendations of the MSD Commission, we introduced new proactive initiatives throughout BSO. We forged federal partnership agreements with the FBI, FEMA and the Department of Homeland Security training divisions, focusing on active shooter and rapid response training. We have established a Threat Management Division and improved the way we gather intelligence and respond to potential threats. We now have cutting-edge technology to identify and investigate potentially dangerous threats to our community. An extension of that division is the Real Time Crime Center (RTCC), which allows for real-time monitoring and analysis of important investigative information during a critical incident. We also have direct access to video surveillance systems that monitor nearly 10,000 cameras in all Broward County schools.

Recently, BSO partnered with SaferWatch, an innovative mobile app that allows users to report non-emergency incidents and crime tips in real time directly to BSO. The app covers more than 440 public, charter and private schools in Broward County and gives students, parents and teachers the ability to submit photos, videos, audio files or text messages anonymously. The information is immediately sent to BSO for appropriate action. It also provides our law enforcement districts with the ability to communicate important real-time information directly with residents. Whether it’s a crime prevention tip, safety alert, traffic advisory or other important information, SaferWatch alerts will be sent directly to your mobile device for immediate notification. I encourage all of our residents to download the free SaferWatch app and subscribe to the BSO district closest to them. Download the app at BrowardAlerts.com.

As the new school year approaches, I want to remind our community of some basic safety tips. When driving, approach all crosswalks in and around school areas with caution, and do not text on your cellphone – it’s the law. Observe the posted school zone speed limit. When walking or riding a bike to school, map out the safest route in advance, and always remember to use a crosswalk. For more back-to-school safety tips, please visit sheriff.org/community.

Although we have accomplished much these last eight months, we are just getting started. I will never lose sight of our mission: to keep our community – especially our schools – safe.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

Few days in the year stir up more excitement and pride than Independence Day. The pageantry, parades, flags and fireworks symbolize deep-rooted patriotism for our nation, the sacrifices made to maintain our values and the pride we have in being Americans.

But, at the heart of it all are the patriots who made it possible. From the founding of this great nation 243 years ago, our strong and vibrant American fabric has been woven by the courageous men and women who took bold actions and immense risks to do what was right, not merely what was popular. Many lost their lives in pursuit of the American dream, and today we stand tall as a nation thanks to their sacrifices.

I love this country — and all the opportunities it has afforded me. I grew up in the birthplace of our nation, a short distance from Independence Hall in Philadelphia where our Founding Fathers signed two of the most important documents in U.S. history — the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution. These individuals placed their lives on the line so that they, and future generations of Americans, could pursue the noble ideals of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

I am living proof of the American dream. In what other nation in the world could a poor black kid from the inner city defy the odds at every turn and one day hold the honor of serving as sheriff for one of the largest and greatest public safety agencies in the nation?

I owe a debt of gratitude — we all do — to those who came before us and fought for our freedoms. On Independence Day, we honor the men and women in uniform that valiantly put themselves in harm’s way, many making the ultimate sacrifice, to protect our American way of life. We also recognize those who committed themselves to justice and equality: individuals, such as civil rights leaders Martin Luther King Jr. and Susan B. Anthony, who patriotically pursued equal rights at a time of great civil discord and whose actions are a testament to the American spirit. We must also give thanks to the everyday men and women — the mothers, fathers, teachers, mentors, factory technicians and fast food workers, who keep our country moving forward.

Patriotism resides in all of us. On this Independence Day, let’s not only honor the sacrifices of those who came before us, but also look inside ourselves as we carry the torch for future generations. Our patriotism is not what we show on the outside; it’s what lies inside each of us: the love of country, dedication to greatness, commitment to equality and pursuit of justice for all. Let us all strive to do what is right, not what is easy or popular. Our nation was founded on these patriotic ideals, and it is up to us to continue that legacy.

Service Equals Reward.

Sheriff Gregory Tony

As sheriff, I hold an important responsibility to protect our community’s children and encourage their positive development. The incredible people I meet around Broward leave me optimistic about our county’s future.​

I also know many potential obstacles await our next generation at every turn — and how even one small mistake could derail these young people from achieving their full potential. No one should have their future destroyed because of a minor, youthful indiscretion. Kids make mistakes and bad choices. It is part of growing up. Learning from those mistakes is what allows children to grow into productive members of society.

For many, however, these minor indiscretions create far-reaching consequences that can amount to a life sentence of lost opportunities. This stark reality is even clearer in struggling working-class communities and communities of color, which are historically disproportionally impacted.

As sheriff, I am promoting restorative justice programs that provide individuals who commit a minor offense with a second chance at leading a productive life. Instead of a permanent arrest record, which could severely limit opportunities in adulthood, a youth who commits a minor offense would enter a restorative justice program. These programs hold the offender to account, provide them with the assistance they need and teach them the discipline, structure, dignity and responsibility necessary to become productive citizens.

These programs are a proven success, showing significantly lower recidivism rates among participants. They also save millions of dollars that would otherwise be spent on less effective juvenile criminal justice system operations. But these programs are not a mere slap on the wrist. Individuals who commit non-minor offenses and repeat offenders know they will feel the full force of the law.

Our efforts are also focused on proactive measures to keep kids from committing crimes in the first place. I was raised largely by my mother in inner-city Philadelphia and understand both the detriment of not having mentors and of how many in minority communities distrust law enforcement. At BSO, we are tackling both issues through a host of bold initiatives.

First, we are expanding our Law Enforcement Explorers Program, which exposes teenagers to positive values and role models. I will also be introducing the BSO Internship Initiative for individuals interested in a career in public safety. Too often, community members interact with deputies only at the worst of times. This program allows for a better understanding of our goals and mission — and allows us better insights into the communities we protect. In addition, because many struggle to pay for school, BSO is developing a criminal justice scholarship program to ease the financial burden. These scholarships are an investment in the future of law enforcement and our communities.

Finally, I am reexamining how the money seized from the proceeds of criminal activity is distributed to community-based nonprofit organizations to support important local programs. Programs that benefit from this Law Enforcement Trust Fund are vital to our mission of connecting with youth and providing programs, mentorships and assistance to them. In the past, distribution was woefully inequitable, with a select few organizations receiving the bulk of the money. I don’t believe in playing favorites, and we will work to ensure that all qualified organizations receive a fair opportunity to compete for funds and that the money will be distributed equitably to the most deserving.

I am humbled by the important role the Sheriff plays in the lives of our county’s children, and I pledge to do my all to ensure their future success.

Service Equals Reward

Sheriff Gregory Tony

As your sheriff, my number one priority will always be to keep our community safe. In a short time, we have made significant changes toward restructuring the agency and directing our efforts toward providing the highest level of public safety service the Broward County community expects and deserves. We have begun by implementing smart personnel changes, instituting a variety of significant training measures, introducing new crime-fighting initiatives, maximizing transparency and encouraging communication.

For years, I’ve kept a now tattered and coffee-stained note affixed to my computer monitor. It serves as a daily reminder for why I devoted my career to public service and how to conduct my life in general.

It’s a simple message. Just two words. But these small words had massive and profound impact on my life and are the guiding principle for every decision I make and for every action I take. The message: “SERVICE = REWARD.”

Far too often, we put attaining the reward ahead of service. We work because we want a new TV, a nicer car or a bigger house. We forget the higher purpose. To live the fullest and most productive life, we must each focus on providing the best possible service to others ahead of all else. The rewards will come later — often when we least expect it.

These words have been a driving force since I was a little boy growing up in inner-city Philadelphia. My mother largely raised me by herself — my father left when I was young — and she worked multiple jobs to make ends meet. Surrounded by gangs and drugs, I quickly understood I needed to work hard and stay on the straight and narrow to pave a path to success.

That led me after high school to move to Tallahassee with just $500 to my name, but with the dream of playing football at Florida State University under legendary coach Bobby Bowden. People doubted me at every turn. But I worked hard, proved the doubters wrong and achieved my dream.

After graduating from FSU with a degree in criminology, I put my belief in service into practice. In 2005, I became a police officer with the Coral Springs Police Department. From my first day on the job, I focused on providing the type of diligent and selfless service the residents deserved. That dedication helped me break through the color barrier to become that agency’s first black sergeant.

In 2016, I left the department and took a risk to focus full-time on a higher cause. All too aware of the numerous active shooter attacks in the US and mass bombing tragedies throughout the world, I relocated and formed a company to provide both the public and private sector with active shooter and mass casualty training. I’m proud of the work we performed and had planned to be there for years to come.

That all changed last year on February 14, with the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. I headed back down to Broward from my new home in South Carolina to assist the families and community affected by the mass shooting. I sat through every MSD Commission hearing and studied all their reports to determine what went wrong and, most importantly, to find ways to prevent this type of tragedy from ever occurring again.

Because of that experience, I was honored and humbled when the governor afforded me this incredible opportunity to help protect the 1.9 million residents of Broward County. As sheriff, I’m here to serve. My pledge to you is simple and clear: I will always provide you with the best leadership and service I can. The reward will come in the form of a safer Broward.

Sincerely,
Sheriff Gregory Tony

But first, February 14 marks the anniversary of the devastating mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland.  Countless lives were forever shattered on that fateful day.  Families and friends are still grieving and cry out for justice.  Some have actively taken on the task of getting laws changed. I am truly heartened by how our community and its citizens have banded together to comfort one another and channeled that emotion into action. 

A TRIBUTE TO OUR MARJORY STONEMAN DOUGLAS HIGH SCHOOL COMMUNITY

No family, no community, no one should ever have to endure the pain of another Parkland tragedy. As your sheriff, I vow to make the safety of our schools and community my top priority—and I intend to hit the ground running. In the coming weeks and months, I will introduce new policies, initiatives and training to BSO.

I know that to prevent this from ever happening again, we must be proactive. We must harden our schools.  We must have highly-trained armed school resource officers ready to protect innocent lives.  We must have an efficient and reliable radio system.  We must keep guns out of the hands of the mentally ill.  We must make every school campus in Broward County free from the threat of violence.  We must restore the feeling of safety for every student, parent and citizen of Broward County.

To the families of those who lost their lives – Alyssa Alhadeff, Martin Duque Anguiano, Scott Beigel, Nicholas Dworet, Aaron Feis, Jaime Guttenberg, Christopher Hixon, Luke Hoyer, Cara Loughran, Gina Montalto, Joaquin Oliver, Alaina Petty, Meadow Pollack, Helena Ramsay, Alexander Schachter, Carmen Schentrup, Peter Wang, – we will never forget.

To the victims who were wounded and survived, and to all the families, friends and community members affected by this terrible tragedy, we will never forget.

At the Broward Sheriff's Office…we will never forget.

Sincerely,

Sheriff Gregory Tony