For Immediate Release:

Tallahassee, Fla. (Aug. 19) –Each year, the Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA) recognizes state legislators who, through their leadership, make significant contributions in the areas of public safety and criminal justice. On Monday, State Senator John Thrasher was presented with FSA’s Legislative Champion Award. St. Johns County Sheriff David Shoar, FSA President, and Volusia County Sheriff Ben Johnson presented the award to Senator Thrasher at the St. Augustine headquarters of the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office.

Florida’s crime rate continues to drop to near record lows, but aggressive law enforcement, an attentive, engaged citizenry and a strong judiciary doesn’t get all the credit. It also takes responsive legislators and strict laws that effectively address crime issues and give law enforcement the tools it needs to keep the state safe. And that’s where the Florida Legislature comes in. This award is designed to recognize legislators who distinguished themselves on law-and-order issues during the last legislative session by providing critical backing to bills supported by Florida Sheriffs and helping to defeat proposed legislating that the Sheriffs determined would be bad for public safety. 

“Senator Thrasher is a conscientious advocate regarding Florida public safety issues. His dedication and willingness to review those bills that could have an adverse affect on law enforcement, and ultimately our citizens, should be commended,” said Sheriff David Shoar. “As St. Johns County’s Sheriff, I am honored to present Senator Thrasher with the Legislative Champion Award, and thank him for his tireless efforts to keep our communities safe.”

Sheriff Johnson also praised Senator Thrasher for his commitment to Florida’s public safety. “Senator Thrasher can always be counted on to stand with us on the side of safety and protection,” said Sheriff Johnson. “He truly is a friend to law enforcement and the citizens of this state.”

Senator Thrasher said he was proud of the award and his working relationship with Florida’s Sheriffs. “As a legislator representing four counties, it’s crucial to have the expertise, input and guidance of our local Sheriffs on criminal justice and public safety issues facing our state, its counties and our neighborhoods,” said Senator Thrasher. “I’m honored to receive this recognition and grateful to have the opportunity to work with the Florida Sheriffs Association on behalf of all Floridians.”

The Florida Sheriffs Association will continue to work with our state representatives and senators on legislation geared toward keeping the state’s citizens and visitors safe. For more information on the legislative priorities of the Florida Sheriffs Association, please visit http://www.flsheriffs.org/legislative.