Sheriff's Message History

Happy New Year

January 09, 2020

As we welcome the year 2020, it would be a missed opportunity if I did not express gratitude for all 2019 offered our community, and the staff of the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office. I truly feel privileged and blessed to be able to serve in a community-focused manner providing the highest level of service to Charlotte County.  

We are committed to bringing the community and law enforcement closer together by creating positive and productive relationships; working together to improve the quality of life and safety of this beautiful county.  Crime prevention is a priority and it takes teamwork between citizens and well-trained deputies to make a positive impact against crime.

To maximize the efficiency and ease of communicating with citizens, we were able to launch the new CCSO App which is available for download on all smart phones. This app makes it easy to report tips and access other important information such as recent arrests, press releases, and road closures.

I recognize that good people can sometimes make mistakes; which is why with participation from the Punta Gorda Police Department, the State Attorney's Office, the Office of the Public Defender, and the Clerk of Courts, I implemented the Adult Pre-Arrest Diversion Program back in May. This program allows law enforcement discretion to offer diversion for certain misdemeanor offenses to adults with no prior record. It also provides an alternative to in-custody arrests. Those who qualify can answer for those mistakes without the stigma of having an arrest record for the rest of their lives.

Another addition to the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office is the collaboration with Charlotte Behavioral Health Care to initiate the Mental Health Unit. The goal of this Unit is to stabilize and provide resources for those who may benefit from mental health intervention and redirects individuals with mental illness to mental health professionals.  

As we look forward to 2020, my hope is that our growing community remains one of the safest and most enjoyable places to live and visit in the State of Florida. I hope for the continued support from the community, as we meet the challenges of the future and pursue excellence in the service and protection of Charlotte County. Lastly, I hope for respect and kindness to and from all.  

Be Safe.

View previous Sheriff's Messages