The Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA) announces that Polk County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Officer Jennifer Miller is the 2024 Florida Sheriffs Association Civilian of the Year. This award recognizes exemplary service above self by a civilian employed at a Florida Sheriff’s office and is proudly sponsored by the Florida Sheriffs Risk Management Fund. 

“The selflessness and bravery that Officer Miller demonstrated makes her a deserving recipient of the 2024 Florida Sheriffs Association Civilian of the Year award,” said Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd. “Her actions reflect what it means to serve with honor and purpose; she’s one of the reasons why Polk County is such a great place to live, work, and play.”

On June 26, 2023, while patrolling along Walker Road in Lakeland, Animal Control Officer Jennifer Miller observed a vehicle overturned in a ditch, with three teenagers trapped inside.

Their attempt to pass another car had gone awry, resulting in the vehicle flipping and landing upside down in approximately 2-3 feet of water. Amidst the chaos, two of the teenagers managed to escape the vehicle, but one remained trapped, unconscious and submerged in the water.

Officer Miller courageously entered the water and removed the teen from the car. Her decisive and fast actions were vital as Polk County Fire Rescue would arrive a few moments later. All three teens were taken to Lakeland Regional Health where they received medical services. The victims had several injuries including lacerations, concussions, and bacterial infections. Undoubtedly, Officer Miller’s quick thinking and heroic actions were enough to save the lives of the three teens, and even allow for a full recovery.

Beyond this act of heroism, Miller is known for going above and beyond in the line of duty as an animal control officer. She puts the needs of her community before her own, regularly serving as a mentor to new members, and passing her knowledge to the next generation.

“Jennifer Miller, an exemplary Animal Control Officer, truly represents the spirit of this award,” said FSA President and Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Prummell. “Her exceptional leadership and steadfast commitment to her community, both on and off the job, are commendable. We are honored to acknowledge her outstanding efforts with this award”

Officer Miller is known as the ‘go-to’ for customer service. She demonstrates a willingness to go above and beyond for her community and the needs of the public. Officer Miller’s dedication to the betterment of people and animals makes her the ideal recipient for the Civilian of the Year award.

“We are proud to sponsor the Civilian of the Year award to celebrate the remarkable contributions of dedicated community members,” said Florida Sheriffs Risk Management Fund Executive Director Don Eslinger. “Animal Control Officer Jennifer Miller is an inspiration and leader. She continuously sets an example of the impact individuals can have.”

For more information on this achievement, watch the official video here: https://youtu.be/V-fV_v8TOMM

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About Florida Sheriffs Association
The Florida Sheriffs Association is a not-for-profit 501(c)3 corporation made up of the Sheriffs of Florida, approximately 3,000 business leaders and 100,000 citizens throughout the state. Founded in 1893, FSA has steadfastly served the citizens of Florida by supporting the needs of the state’s law enforcement community. Through the Florida Sheriffs Association, Sheriffs are given a forum to address lawmakers to push for positive changes in Florida’s public safety arena. FSA also provides Sheriffs’ Offices much-needed programs such as affordable training, special task forces and legislative and legal services. Dedicated to the prevention of juvenile delinquency and the development of lawful, productive citizens, FSA has established and funded the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches with facilities throughout the state to help restore hope, fulfill dreams, and prepare boys and girls for the future. It has grown to be one of the largest and most successful state law enforcement associations in the nation. For more information on the Florida Sheriffs Association, visit www.flsheriffs.org.

About the Florida Sheriffs Risk Management Fund

The Florida Sheriffs Risk Management Fund (FSRMF), created and owned by Florida Sheriffs, provides customized and affordable liability, automobile and workers’ compensation coverages to Florida Sheriff’s offices. The FSRMF, which originally offered liability coverage, was established in 1978 and currently insures 59 Sheriffs’ offices. The FSRMF is managed by a Board of Managers comprised of Sheriffs elected by the membership. The day-to-day operations are handled by a professional team of dedicated underwriting, claims and risk control employees of FSRMF who have extensive working knowledge in law enforcement. Learn more at www.fsrmf.org.