The Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA), the nation’s largest and most successful law enforcement association, is pleased to announce its leadership for the 2026-2027 year. The newly elected FSA President, Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods, will work with the staff and board of directors to guide the efforts and direction of FSA and its 67 elected sheriffs.  

Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods has dedicated more than 36 years to public service and law enforcement, including 26 years with the Ocala Police Department before being elected Sheriff of Marion County in 2016. A fifth-generation Marion County resident, Sheriff Woods has focused on modernizing the Marion County Sheriff’s Office through organizational restructuring, expanded public safety initiatives, investments in specialized units, and improvements to deputy and employee compensation. Under his leadership, the agency has implemented programs supporting traffic safety, agricultural communities, youth, crime victims, and vulnerable populations while expanding operational capabilities to meet the demands of a rapidly growing county. As President of the Florida Sheriffs Association, he brings extensive executive experience and a steadfast commitment to supporting Florida’s sheriffs and advancing public safety across the state.

“Being chosen to lead the Florida Sheriffs Association is something I do not take lightly. It is a role I hold with great honor. At its heart, leadership means putting others first, and I am wholeheartedly dedicated to serving my fellow sheriffs and the citizens of this state with principle and resolve,” said Marion County Sheriff Billy Woods. “I look forward to partnering with our board of directors and the outstanding FSA staff to move the Association’s work forward and to make certain the Office of Sheriff remains the foundation upon which public safety in Florida is built for generations ahead.”

Sheriff Wood’s dedication to public service and addressing complex issues has made an impact not only in Marion County and across Florida, but throughout the entire country. His commitment to FSA was showcased through his position as Vice President under Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma this past year, in addition to several other leadership roles within the Florida Sheriffs Association.

Other FSA board appointments are:

• Vice President: Sheriff Rick Staly, Flagler County
• Secretary: Sheriff Gator Deloach, Putnam County
• Treasurer: Sheriff A.J. Smith, Franklin County
• Immediate Past President: Sheriff Dennis Lemma, Seminole County
• Chair: Eric Flowers, Indian River County
• Vice-Chair: Michelle Cook, Clay County

“With Sheriff Billy Woods leading the Florida Sheriffs Association as president, we are well positioned to advance our strategic priorities and continue strengthening the Office of Sheriff in partnership with all 67 of Florida’s sheriffs,” said FSA Executive Director Matt Dunagan. “Together, we will remain focused on fulfilling the Association’s critical mission through education, training and legislative advocacy.

Left to right: FSA Treasurer Franklin County Sheriff AJ Smith,  FSA President Sheriff Billy Woods, FSA Vice President Sheriff Rick Staly, and Secretary Sheriff Gator Deloach (being sworn in by Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma). 

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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.