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On January 16, 1935, FBI agents engaged in an epic six-hour gunfight with Kate “Ma” Barker and her son Fred in tiny Ocklawaha, Florida, effectively ending the criminal reign of the infamous “Ma Barker-Alvin Karpis” crime family.

During its 2023 FSA Memorial ceremony, the Florida Sheriffs Association honored the fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty

The Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA), one of the largest and most successful law-enforcement associations in the nation, is pleased to announce its leadership for the coming year. Walton County Sheriff Mike Adkinson has been elected President of FSA. Sheriff Adkinson will be responsible for presiding over the association, working with the staff and board of directors to guide the efforts and direction of FSA and its 67 Sheriffs.

Late this afternoon we were made aware that Sheriff Chris Blair was arrested and charged in relation to an incident which is currently being investigated by the Grand Jury in Marion County, FL. It is also our understanding that Governor Rick Scott has appointed Emery Gainey, a veteran law enforcement officer, to serve as the interim sheriff until an election can be held.

Each year, the Florida Sheriffs Association invests in the lives of exceptional students by awarding scholarships to some of the state’s hardest working and most talented individuals. Last year, the Florida Sheriffs Association received a generous donation of $20,000 from the Motorola Solutions Foundation to create a STEM scholarship for students pursuing a career in any STEM-related field (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math.)

Today, the Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA) honored all of the deputies and officers who gave their lives in service of the law and to the state of Florida. At the ceremony, three names were added to the FSA Memorial Wall. FSA President Sheriff Sadie Darnell and Okaloosa County Sheriff Larry Ashley joined Sheriffs from across the state at the FSA Memorial Wall to celebrate the lives of the men and women who died while serving their communities.

Each year the Florida Sheriffs Association (FSA) recognizes several exemplary state legislators for their significant contributions to and support of good public safety policies during legislative session. These legislators have demonstrated a commitment to protecting the best interests of Florida citizens through their diligent legislative efforts and support of FSA initiatives.

This past Friday, the Florida Sheriffs Association graduated 30 deputies from its prestigious Commanders Academy. This two-week program started on March 7 and reconvened for its final week on April 4, 2016. The Commanders Academy is an exceptionally informative and educational experience that is essential for the next generation of leaders.

Recognizing the need to reform the process governing how death benefits are left to the family members of officers killed in the line of duty, the Florida Legislature today adopted SB 7012 regarding Death Benefits Under the Florida Retirement System (FRS). The legislation was a top priority of the Florida Sheriffs Association this session and was also supported by the Florida Police Benevolent Association and Deputy Pine’s wife, Bridget Pine. SB 7012 was prompted after the tragic death of Orange County Deputy Scott Pine in 2014.

The Florida Contraband Forfeiture Act is an important tool for law enforcement in preventing crime and protecting Florida's communities.  Current HB 889/SB 1044 strikes an important balance addressing the needs of law enforcement to prevent criminals from profiting from their illegal acts while strengthening the property rights of citizens.  The Florida Sheriffs Association wants to thank Senators Jeff Brandes and Aaron Bean and Representatives Larry Metz and Matt Caldwell for their hard work in bringing together all stakeholders, and finding a long-term compromise that all sides could support.