The Florida Sheriffs Association is honored to announce the selection of Detective Robert Pence of the Broward Sheriff’s Office as the 2026 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. This award, which is proudly sponsored by FirstNet®, Built with AT&T, is presented annually at the FSA Summer Conference to commend a law enforcement officer who has shown service, bravery, and honor in the line of duty. 

Detective Robert Pence delivered a year of service that stands apart from even the high standards expected of Florida’s law enforcement professionals. Over the course of the year, he played a critical role in some of Broward County’s most complex and dangerous investigations, helping bring violent offenders to justice, recover firearms, rescue victims, and protect communities from further harm. His investigative skill, attention to detail, and ability to work effectively across agencies produced results that had a direct and lasting impact on public safety.

What sets Detective Pence apart is not a single case, but a consistent record of excellence. In February, he helped lead the investigation into a triple homicide and child kidnapping, one of Broward County’s most significant cases of the year. Through coordinated investigative efforts, the suspect was located and a kidnapped child was safely recovered within hours of the murder. Later in the year, Detective Pence played a key role in a complex investigation involving the targeted victimization of a cryptocurrency investor, helping identify and apprehend those responsible. He also assisted in the search for escaped inmates in December, contributing to efforts that safely brought the incident to a close. These cases required persistence, sound judgment, and a commitment to seeing investigations through to their conclusion. Together, they reflect a year of service that far exceeded the normal expectations of duty and underscore why Detective Pence is so deserving of this recognition. Time and again, he stepped into difficult situations, followed leads others could not, and remained focused on achieving justice for victims. His work reflects the qualities that define the best of the law enforcement profession: integrity, service, and courage. Through his actions, Detective Pence has brought great credit to the Broward Sheriff’s Office and serves as an outstanding example of the dedication Florida’s deputies demonstrate every day.

“Detective Pence captures the very essence of service and protection, bringing both bravery and professionalism to his community each and every day,” said Broward County Sheriff Dr. Gregory Tony. “He stands as a shining example of what law enforcement at its finest looks like. Detective Pence is a person of deep integrity and absolute commitment to the well-being of those he serves.”

“The Florida Sheriffs Association is proud to name Detective Robert Pence as our 2026 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year, and I can say without hesitation that this honor could not go to a more deserving individual,” said FSA President and Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods. “Time and again this past year, Detective Pence stepped up to solve some of Broward County’s most dangerous and complex situations. That kind of dedication does not come from a job description, it comes from a deep personal commitment to service. Detective Pence exemplifies the courage and professionalism that make Florida’s law enforcement officers among the finest in the nation.”

“FirstNet, Built with AT&T, is honored to sponsor the Florida Sheriffs Association’s Law Enforcement Officer of the Year award recognizing Detective Robert Pence,” said Rob LaVielle, FirstNet Sales Director, AT&T. “Detective Pence’s dedication to serving his community is a shining example of law enforcement at its best in Florida. We sincerely thank him for his commitment, thoroughness, and selfless sacrifice in doing what is right and just. We congratulate Detective Pence on being named the Florida Sheriffs Association’s 2026 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.”

The Florida Sheriffs Association is proud to honor the 2026 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. For more information on this achievement, watch the official video here.

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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 FirstNet, Built with AT&T

FirstNet is the only nationwide, high-speed broadband communications platform dedicated to and purpose-built for America’s first responders and the extended public safety community. Shaped by the vision of Congress and the first responder community following the 9/11 terrorist attacks, FirstNet stands above commercial offerings. It is built with AT&T, in a public-private partnership with the First Responder Network Authority (FirstNet Authority) – an independent agency within the federal government. The FirstNet network provides public safety with truly dedicated coverage and capacity when they need it. These advanced capabilities help fire, EMS, and law enforcement save lives and protect their communities. Learn more at FirstNet.com. FirstNet and the FirstNet logo are registered trademarks of the First Responder Network Authority. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.