In The News

Incumbent Rick Staly wins Flagler County Sheriff race

November 3, 2020 – The Daytona Beach News-Journal

Incumbent Sheriff Rick Staly defeated Democratic candidate Larry Jones in the general election Tuesday for Flagler County Sheriff. Out of the 69,758 votes cast, Staly earned 70% while Jones earned 30%.

Staly became the Flagler County Sheriff on Nov. 18, 2016, and was sworn-in as Flagler County’s 18th Sheriff on Jan. 3, 2017. Staly has been in law enforcement since 1975 and joined the Flagler County Sheriff’s office in 2013.

View News Article

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Staly Wins Re-election

Sheriff Rick Staly won his second term with 70 percent of the vote. Staly spoke about the election in general this afternoon, applauding Flagler County and Palm Coast for maintaining calm and going about campaigning and voting without any of the feared disruptions that augured Election Day. And he spoke about his own successes.

“This is a great community, they obviously want to voice their opinion but they’ve done it for the most part respectful and peaceful of each other’s opinions, even if they disagree,” Staly said. “A few exceptions obviously, and as you know we’ve had some signs vandalized, stolen, I’ve had some of my signs stolen, although I’m hoping they didn’t just steal from someone’s yard, they wanted it for their yard. You never know. But I think the community’s done well. I think we as an agency have handled the election very professional. Last three and three quarter years, we’ve done an amazing job for the community. Crime is way down. So yeah, I’m feeling pretty good, but I’ve got a great crew of volunteers that are very dedicated, out at the voting sites for the last two weeks[and] obviously today. I get to lead an amazing team that’s delivered for this community.”

Staly said fund-raising was a lot easier than what he described as the “spirited” election of 2016, when he was one of six candidates vying for the Republican primary, winning it by five points but less than 40 percent, and drafting what now amounts to an email list of 100 volunteers was easier this time around. At his victory party he was expecting community members, volunteers, elected officials.

The sheriff was holding his celebration party at Beachfront Grille in Flagler Beach, the same place where he held his 2016 victory party. “I wouldn’t say I’m superstitious, but I don’t want to change success, and it’s just a nice location,” Staly said, enabling inside and outside socializing. Live music was already scheduled.

“We’re encouraging social distancing, encouraging wearing a mask, but we’re not mandating it, it’s optional in there,” the sheriff said. “I think there’ll be a lot of employees tonight, which you didn’t see in the past, you know, employees that supported me, their union endorsed me. So I think there’s a lot of excitement from my campaign from within and in the community.” He said he could depend on a cross-section of supports from both parties. Six to seven weeks ago, an internal poll showed him up 42 points over Jones, he said.

Staly spoke with his wife Debbie at his side. “I support him totally, he does a really good job. He’s always out in the community,” she said. “I don’t see him very much, but that’s OK. That’s what we signed up for.”

“She’s already told me I can go for 2024 if I want,” Staly said. “I live in this community too, I want a safe community also,” Debbie Staly said.

This story is an excerpt of election news by FlaglerLive.com, View full News Article

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Election Night Contact & Celebration Information for Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly

PRESS RELEASE  November 2, 2020

BUNNELL, FL: The Keep Rick Staly our Sheriff team announces that Sheriff Rick Staly will be hosting a celebration for supporters and volunteers on Tuesday, November 3, 2020 starting at 6:30pm at Beachfront Grille, 2444 S. Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach, Florida.

MEDIA inquiries on election night should be directed to Sheriff Rick Staly at 386-264-5628 for official election inquiries as Flagler County Sheriff or 407-973-9238 for campaign related inquiries. You can also email Sheriff Staly at: Rick@RickStaly.com. Expect delays in email responses.

WHAT:   Keep Rick Staly our Sheriff Team Celebration
WHERE:   Beachfront Grille, 2444 S. Oceanshore Blvd., Flagler Beach, FL
WHEN:   Tuesday, November 3, 2020 @ 6:30pm – ??
WHO:   Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly and supporters

View Press Release

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Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Supports Sheriff Rick Staly for Re-election

PRESS RELEASE  October 12, 2020

BUNNELL, FL:  The Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign announces that Florida Governor Ron DeSantis supports Sheriff Rick Staly for re-election as Flagler County Sheriff and asks Flagler Counter voters to join him in re-electing and supporting Sheriff Rick Staly.

“Sheriff Rick Staly is a law and order Sheriff. His efforts have led to a 25 year low in crime in Flagler County. Sheriff Staly cares deeply for his community and believes all people deserve to enjoy the freedoms enshrined in the Constitution. Rick has my full support and I ask you to join me,” said Governor Ron DeSantis.

“I am honored to be supported by Governor DeSantis,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “Governor DeSantis was previously our Congressman and his home was in Flagler County when he served in Washington. Governor DeSantis knows Flagler County and how much the crime rate is down under my leadership.”

Sheriff Staly was previously endorsed by the Constitutional Sheriff’s and Peace Officers Association, local Mayors, past and current Flagler County Commission Chairmen Sullivan and O’Brien, police chiefs, Volusia Sheriff Chitwood, St. Johns Sheriff Shoar, Putnam Sheriff Gator DeLoach, Brevard Sheriff Ivey, retired Flagler Sheriff Fleming, local state Representative Renner and state Senator Hutson, U. S. Senator Scott, U.S. Congressman Waltz, State Attorney Larizza, the local and state Fraternal Order of Police lodges, Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association, who represent the men and women of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Police Benevolent Association, Clerk of Court Tom Bexley and the Florida Police Chiefs Association. Sheriff Staly has also been endorsed by the Palm Coast Professional Firefighters Association and the Flagler County Professional Firefighters Association along with Parenthood Florida.

View Press Release

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Palm Coast Observer Endorses Sheriff Rick Staly for Re-election

“I endorse Sheriff Rick Staly for re-election. When comparing my position to the position of the two candidates in this race, I clearly am aligned with Sheriff Rick Staly. The reduction of our crime rate speaks volume about Sheriff Staly’s effectiveness in law enforcement. His staff and leadership are diverse. If you think calling the jail the Green Roof Inn is demeaning to inmates, then don’t be an inmate! I confronted Sheriff Staly on his budget request claiming any increase was unnecessary but changed my mind when I learned that the investments in technology and personnel development must continue. Our community witnessed the effective deployment of community policing several weeks ago when our community demonstrated and protested against social injustice without any incident of violence. Rick Staly is a top cop and should be re-elected as Flagler County Sheriff.” – John Walsh, Publisher, Palm Coast Observer

View Palm Coast Observer Endorsements, October 7, 2020

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Congressman Michael Waltz Endorses Sheriff Rick Staly for Re-election

PRESS RELEASE  October 6, 2020

BUNNELL, FL:  The Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign announces that Congressman Michael Waltz has endorsed Rick Staly for re-election as Flagler County Sheriff.

“Sheriff Staly is the leader Flagler County needs to keep as Sheriff.  As a young Deputy Sheriff he was battle tested after being shot three times saving the life of a fellow Deputy Sheriff. For his actions on that fateful day he was awarded the Governor’s Medal of Heroism and the Medal of Valor.  As Flagler County Sheriff he has motivated a team, implemented new technology and implemented Guardianship and District policing resulting in a 47% reduction in crime, the lowest crime rate in Flagler County since 1995.  Sheriff Staly has been endorsed by the deputies and  firefighters that serve you and every nearby Sheriff, 7th Circuit State Attorney and Flagler County Clerk of Court.  It is for these reasons I proudly endorse Sheriff Rick Staly for re-election and encourage all Flagler County voters to Keep Rick Staly your Sheriff,” Congressman Michael Waltz.

“I am honored to be endorsed by Congressman Waltz,” said Sheriff Rick Staly.  “Congressman Waltz’s knows what it’s like to be in battle to protect our country and always has the back of law enforcement and first responders. I am honored to receive his endorsement and to call him my friend.”

Sheriff Staly was previously endorsed by the Constitutional Sheriff’s and Peace Officers Association, local Mayors, past and current Flagler County Commission Chairmen Sullivan and O’Brien, police chiefs, Volusia Sheriff Chitwood, St. Johns Sheriff Shoar, Putnam Sheriff Gator DeLoach, Brevard Sheriff Ivey, retired Flagler Sheriff Fleming, local state Representative Renner and state Senator Hutson, U. S. Senator Scott, State Attorney Larizza, the local and state Fraternal Order of Police lodges, Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association, who represent the men and women of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Police Benevolent Association, Clerk of Court Tom Bexley and the Florida Police Chiefs Association. Sheriff Staly has also been endorsed by the Palm Coast Professional Firefighters Association and the Flagler County Professional Firefighters Association along with Parenthood Florida.

View Press Release

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Senator Rick Scott Endorses Sheriff Rick Staly for Re-election

PRESS RELEASE  August 31, 2020

BUNNELL, FL:  The Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign announces that former Florida Governor and current United States Senator, Rick Scott, has endorsed Rick Staly for re-election as Flagler County Sheriff.

“Sheriff Staly is the leader Flagler County needs as Sheriff. In just three years he led the community through three hurricanes, a pandemic and he and his team reduced crime by 47%, which is the lowest crime rate in Flagler County in 25-years. It is for these reasons I endorse Sheriff Rick Staly for re-election and encourage all Flagler County voters to Keep Rick Staly Sheriff,” said Senator Rick Scott.

“I am honored to be endorsed by Senator Scott,” said Sheriff Rick Staly.  “Senator Scott continues to support law enforcement as a U.S. Senator just as he did as Florida’s Governor. He and his office have supported us as we dealt with three hurricanes and ensured we had the safety gear we needed for the safety of our deputies during the pandemic. That is leadership and why I greatly appreciate his endorsement.”

Sheriff Staly was previously endorsed by the Constitutional Sheriff’s and Peace Officers Association, local Mayors, past and current Flagler County Commission Chairmen Sullivan and O’Brien, police chiefs, Volusia Sheriff Chitwood, St. Johns Sheriff Shoar, Putnam Sheriff Gator DeLoach, Brevard Sheriff Ivey, retired Flagler Sheriff Fleming, local state Representative Renner and state Senator Hutson, State Attorney Larizza, the local and state Fraternal Order of Police lodges, Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association, who represent the men and women of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Police Benevolent Association, Clerk of Court Tom Bexley and the Florida Police Chiefs Association. Sheriff Staly has also been endorsed by the Palm Coast Professional Firefighters Association and the Flagler County Professional Firefighters Association.

View Press Release

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NRA-PVF and Unified Sportsman of Florida Endorses Sheriff Rick Staly for Re-election

PRESS RELEASE  August 24, 2020

BUNNELL, FL:  The Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign announces the National Rifle Association-PVF and the Unified Sportsmen of Florida have endorsed Rick Staly for re-election as Flagler County Sheriff.

“We sincerely appreciate your strong support of the Second Amendment, self-defense, and anti-crime issues,” said Marion P. Hammer, NRA Past President and Executive Director of the Unified Sportsmen of Florida. “Further, we are pleased to inform you that your responses to our 2020 Questionnaire combined with your pro-Second Amendment position has earned you the following ratings by our organizations: National Rifle Association ‘A’, Unified Sportsmen of Florida ‘Pro-Gun’.”

“I am honored to once again receive the ‘A’ rating and be endorsed by the NRA-PVF and the Unified Sportsmen of Florida,” said Sheriff Rick Staly.  “As Sheriff I will always support and protect the Second Amendment and your right to self-defense. I will always stand against criminals and with our law abiding citizens.”

Sheriff Staly was previously endorsed by Constitutional Sheriff’s and Peace Officers Association, local Mayors, past and current Flagler County Commission Chairmen Sullivan and O’Brien, police chiefs, Volusia Sheriff Chitwood, St. Johns Sheriff Shoar, Putnam Sheriff Gator DeLoach, Brevard Sheriff Ivey, retired Flagler Sheriff Fleming, local State Representative Renner and State Senator Hutson, State Attorney Larizza, the local and state Fraternal Order of Police lodges, Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association, who represent the men and women of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Police Benevolent Association, Clerk of Court Tom Bexley and the Florida Police Chiefs Association. Sheriff Staly has also been endorsed by the Palm Coast Professional Firefighters Association and the Flagler County Professional Firefighters Association.

View Press Release

View NFR-PVF Statement

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Opinion: Police Hiring Should Reflect Diversity

THE DAYTONA BEACH NEWS JOURNAL ONLINE – August 12, 2020, 7:00 PM

Recent unrest in cities across the nation proves that there’s still a long way to go in healing rifts between communities and police agencies. Modern law-enforcement departments have been working diligently to bridge these gaps, and one of the most successful strategies has been to recruit and promote officers who reflect the racial and cultural atmosphere in the communities they serve.

Give local departments — particularly, the DeLand and Daytona Beach police departments, and sheriff’s offices in Flagler and Volusia counties — credit for pushing hard to recruit more minorities into police work. But a recent investigation by The News-Journal’s Frank Fernandez reveals that even among agencies making the strongest efforts, progress is hard to come by. Few communities have enough minority police officers to reflect the ethnic and racial breakdowns of the municipalities or counties they serve.

In fact, as tensions mount, spurred by a string of deaths of Black people at the hands of police, it’s getting harder — both to recruit minority officers, and to work as a Black or Latino officer in communities newly suspicious of police.

The tipping point was, of course, the May 25 death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police. Nearly eight minutes of video documented an officer kneeling on Floyd’s neck, and too many Black Americans saw their own experience reflected in the impassive indifference of officers as Floyd pleaded for his life.

The incident — one of several in recent years — hit hard across the nation. And its aftermath will linger, making minority recruitment even more difficult in coming years.

Even before that, recruitment was becoming tougher, Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood told Fernandez: “The number of African Americans who take the certification exam has dropped every year despite our recruiting efforts, despite our scholarships, despite everything that we are doing,” Chitwood said.

But police agencies must keep pushing, adapting strategies from more successful departments.

There are a few built-in barriers. The first is salary, a particularly difficult problem for agencies serving small cities with restricted tax bases. Across the nation, many agencies are also plagued with complaints about institutional racism inside their own ranks — though Fernandez didn’t uncover any complaints about that locally.

There are also strategies that work. One option that area agencies have employed, with some success, is to work through public schools to build a better understanding of law enforcement as a career, promoting internships and ride-along opportunities to middle- and high-school students. Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly has worked with the local NAACP as well as Bethune-Cookman University to help in his recruitment efforts, and they’ve borne fruit: In Flagler County, Black deputies make up 8.9 percent of the department’s sworn officers, which comes close to reflecting the county’s overall racial makeup.

Other agencies aren’t doing as well. Across Volusia and Flagler counties, Fernandez found five agencies who had no black officers at all.

Despite discouraging trends, local agencies shouldn’t give up. The potential payoff — in community connections, increased public safety and decreased tensions — is worth the effort.

View published Opinion Article

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Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association Endorses Sheriff Rick Staly for Re-election

PRESS RELEASE  August 10, 2020

BUNNELL, FL:  The Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign and the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association are proud to announce that Sheriff Rick Staly has been endorsed by CSPOA for re-election.

“The people of Flagler County should be confident, and rest assured, that Sheriff Staly is not only a Law Enforcement professional, who enforces the law with fairness, but is also dedicated to protecting the Liberty of each and every citizen within Flagler County,” said retired Sheriff Richard Mack and CSPOA President.  “I have worked with Sheriffs all across American and I can honestly say that Sheriff Staly is one of the best in the entire country.”

“I am honored to once again be endorsed by Sheriff Mack and the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association, ” said Sheriff Rick Staly.  “The CSPOA will only endorse candidates that have a proven commitment to protecting our constitutional rights, which I took an oath to do when I became Sheriff.”

Sheriff Staly was previously endorsed by local Mayors, past and current Flagler County Commission Chairmen Sullivan and O’Brien, police chiefs, Volusia Sheriff Chitwood, St. Johns Sheriff Shoar, Brevard Sheriff Ivey, retired Flagler Sheriff Fleming, local state Representative Renner and state Senator Hutson, State Attorney Larizza, the local and state Fraternal Order of Police lodges, Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association, who represent the men and women of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Police Benevolent Association, Clerk of Court Tom Bexley and the Florida Police Chiefs Association. Sheriff Staly has also been endorsed by the Palm Coast Professional Firefighters Association and the Flagler County Professional Firefighters Association.

View Press Release

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Crime Reduced 47% in Flagler County since 2016, Lowest Crime Rate in 25 Years

FCSO PRESS RELEASE  July 24, 2020

BUNNELL, FL:  The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) submitted crime statistics for the first six months of 2020 to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) as required by law semi-annually. Crime is down 24.9% in 2020 compared to the same time period in 2019.

Crime continues to fall in Flagler County and is at the lowest crime rate the county has seen in 25 years when its population was just 40,259 residents. In the first six months of 2020 overall crime is down 24.9% when compared to the same time frame in 2019.

Since 2016, total index offenses in the jurisdiction of the FCSO are down 47% with a clearance rate of 35%. Property Crime, which includes Burglary, Larceny and Motor Vehicle Theft, is down 52.5% and Violent Crime, which includes Murder, Rape, Robbery and Aggravated Assault, is down 11% overall.

“Our crime reduction strategies work,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “Total crime in Flagler County is down 47% since I became your Sheriff in 2017 because we have implemented a number of new and successful initiatives. We focus on the small number of career criminals committing most of the crimes. We arrest these criminals and put them in jail where they cannot prey on our community. Criminals outside of our county are learning to not commit crimes here as they are quickly arrested. We have a phenomenal team that I am very proud of who comes to work every day with one mission in mind: to keep our community a safe place to live, work, and visit.”

Many programs and initiatives implemented over the past three years have aided in the record-breaking reduction in crime. The FCSO employs real time crime analysis, the latest technology, community and business partnerships, a strong program of teaching citizens how to keep their property safe, a district policing model, inmate rehabilitation initiatives, probation checks for adults and juveniles, and uses a guardianship policing philosophy, where we provide law enforcement services with the community. Our programs also include a dedicated P.A.C.E. team focused on problem areas and problem crimes, a more systematic Traffic Unit to perform traffic enforcement in high crash locations and complaint areas, the S.T.R.I.D.E. program in the jail to help set inmates up for success and on the right track upon release, the S.W.E.A.T. program that takes potentially troubled youth and shows them the path they are headed down if they don’t turn their lives around, and a robust communications platform to proactively communicate crime prevention information and engage the community.

The preliminary statistics reported to FDLE will be reviewed and verified before being formally distributed and posted on the FDLE website in the future. FDLE began tracking crime statistics in 1971.

Link to Video Announcement by Sheriff Rick Staly

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Putnam County Sheriff H.D. “Gator” DeLoach Says Keep Rick Staly Flagler County Sheriff

All Nearby Sheriff’s have Endorsed Sheriff Rick Staly for Re-election

PRESS RELEASE  July 24, 2020

BUNNELL, FL: The Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign announces another endorsement. Putnam County Sheriff H. D. “Gator” DeLoach has endorsed keeping Rick Staly Flagler County Sheriff.

“Rick Staly is the Sheriff Flagler County needs.  He has restored the rule of law and brought fairness and balance to the residents of Flagler. Sheriff Staly has earned a second term for his tremendous efforts in lowering crime, serving Flagler County with dignity and respect and for excellence in developing and maintaining a team of exemplary law enforcement professionals.”

“I appreciate Sheriff DeLoach’s endorsement and recognition of the efforts we have made to professionalize the Sheriff’s Office and lower crime for our community,” said Sheriff Rick Staly.  “With this endorsement all nearby Sheriff’s that we work with daily have now endorsed me for re-election.”

Sheriff Staly was previously endorsed by local Mayors, past and current Flagler County Commission Chairmen Sullivan and O’Brien, police chiefs, Volusia Sheriff Chitwood, St. Johns Sheriff Shoar, Brevard Sheriff Ivey, retired Flagler Sheriff Fleming, local state Representative Renner and state Senator Hutson, State Attorney Larizza, the local and state Fraternal Order of Police lodges, Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association, who represent the men and women of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Police Benevolent Association, Clerk of Court Tom Bexley and the Florida Police Chiefs Association. Sheriff Staly has also been endorsed by the Palm Coast Professional Firefighters Association and the Flagler County Professional Firefighters Association.

View Press Release

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Retired Flagler County Sheriff Don Fleming Says Keep Rick Staly Flagler County Sheriff

PRESS RELEASE  June 29, 2020

BUNNELL, FL: The Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign announces another endorsement. Retired Flagler County Sheriff Don Fleming has endorsed keeping Rick Staly Flagler County Sheriff.

“I feel Sheriff Staly has earned a second term due to his proactive approach to law enforcement, reducing crime, educating the public and creating a positive environment for the men and women within the agency,” said retired Sheriff Fleming.

“I appreciate Sheriff Fleming’s endorsement of my vision and leadership of the Sheriff’s Office since I took office in 2017,” said Sheriff Rick Staly.  “No one knows the responsibilities, pressures and demands of the Office of Sheriff unless you have sat in the chair so I am humbled by his endorsement. Since I have been Sheriff crime has been reduced by more than 36% and the Sheriff’s Office has became a 4-diamond accredited law enforcement agency. We have also been recognized as one of the ten best places to work in Volusia/Flagler County.”

Sheriff Staly was previously endorsed by local Mayors, past and current Flagler County Commission Chairmen, police chiefs, nearby Sheriffs, local state Representative Renner and state Senator Hutson, State Attorney Larizza, the local and state Fraternal Order of Police lodges, Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association, who represent the men and women of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Police Benevolent Association, Clerk of Court Tom Bexley and the Florida Police Chiefs Association. Sheriff Staly has also been endorsed by the Palm Coast Professional Firefighters Association and the Flagler County Professional Firefighters Association.

Retired Sheriff Fleming served as Flagler County Sheriff from 2005 thru 2012.

View Press Release

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Don’t Let Sex Offenders Hide From Registration

GUEST OPINION COLUMN – DAYTONA BEACH NEWS-JOURNAL, 05/08/2020

by SHERIFF RICK STALY

For years, the state of Florida has required convicted sex offenders by law to register when they move into and live in your neighborhood. This statutory provision has served Floridians well by enabling both law enforcement and citizens to know about the presence and location of convicted sex offenders in their communities. Unfortunately, a newly discovered legal loophole is being exploited by convicted sex offenders and their defense attorneys to avoid registering when they move into Florida communities.

Recently, the 2nd District Court of Appeals considered the case of a convicted sex offender in Hillsborough County who had failed to register after being released from the Florida Department of Corrections after completing his prison sentence. The offender had been sentenced to 15 years and fined $10,000. He and his defense attorney’s claimed that under the law, as it is currently written, he did not need to register since he had not completed his sentence. His sentence included both incarceration for 15 years in state prison and payment of a $10,000 fine. He served the time but never paid the fine and likely won’t. Using a creative defense his attorney exploited a loophole. The appellate court, looking at the literal language of the law and not the intent of the law, agreed with the defense and the court held the convicted sex offender did not have to register as a sex offender because he never “completed his sentence” when he failed to pay the $10,000 fine.

The intent of the current law is clear – sex offenders must register with the local sheriff. However, without action, the crazy result of this court ruling is sex offenders across Florida could avoid registering their presence in our neighborhoods as long as they never pay their fines. This is a double travesty of justice – they are legally allowed to hide who they are and where they live if they don’t pay their fines, which most Department of Corrections offenders do not pay up. This ruling puts our communities and children at risk by allowing convicted sex offenders to roam our communities unregistered and unknown to law enforcement and neighbors. This is totally unacceptable and handcuffs law enforcement from keeping sex offenders from preying on communities.

As sheriff, I have contacted the Florida Sheriff’s Association and our local representatives, State Sen. Travis Hutson and State Rep. Paul Renner so we can fix the law. All have agreed this fix needs to happen as soon as possible and I pledge to do everything I can to do just that. I am asking our community and our Florida lawmakers to join us in returning the law to its original intent. With this needed change, law enforcement and citizens will always have the opportunity to know about convicted sex offenders in their community. This reform law would help ensure a safer Florida for our children and families and hold sex offenders accountable for their criminal deviant behavior.

Staly is the sheriff of Flagler County.

Link to Online Article

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Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign Announces Another Key Endorsement

Palm Coast Professional Firefighters Association, Local 4807,  Endorses Sheriff Staly for Re-election

PRESS RELEASE  March 8, 2020

BUNNELL, FL:  The Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign announces another key endorsement. The Palm Coast Professional Firefighters Association, local 4807, representing Palm Coast Firefighters has endorsed Rick Staly for Flagler County Sheriff.

“We support our brothers and sisters with the Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association in their efforts to re-elect you as Sheriff,” said Patrick J. Juliano, President of the Palm Coast Professional Firefighters Local 4808. “We…ask our members, their friends, families, neighbors and co-workers to support your candidacy because of your commitment to the men and women of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.”

“I am very honored to be endorsed by the men and women that serve our community as firefighters. As first responders they know my leadership and commitment the best,” said Sheriff Staly.

Sheriff Staly was previously endorsed by Flagler County Mayors, past and current Flagler County Chairmen, police chiefs, nearby Sheriffs, local state representative and senator, state attorney, the local and state Fraternal Order of Police lodges and Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association, who represent the men and women of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.

View Press Release

View Palm Coast Professional Firefighters Endorsement

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The Florida Police Chiefs Association Endorses Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly for Re-election

Florida Police Chiefs Association – Press Release

For Immediate Release: Thursday, February 27, 2020 Contact: Amy Mercer, (850) 219-3631, amercer@fpca.com

TALLAHASSEE, FL: The Florida Police Chiefs Association (FPCA) today endorsed Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly for re-election.

“Sheriff Staly is an extraordinary public servant,” said the FPCA Executive Director Amy Mercer. “From his early service in municipal policing with the Oviedo and Altamonte Springs police departments, to his 23 years with the Orange County Sheriff’s Office and now as Sheriff of Flagler County, Sheriff Staly is a proven champion for law enforcement and public safety.”

As Flagler County Sheriff, Sheriff Staly has been active in creating partnerships and providing support to Flagler County’s local police departments and active with the Florida Sheriff’s Association, Florida Deputy Sheriff’s Association and the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranches, serving on various committees and Boards. Sheriff Staly has led the Flagler County Sheriff’s office to record breaking reduction levels in crimes while modernizing the Agency’s technology and crime fighting ability. Since Sheriff Staly was elected Sheriff, crime has been reduced 37%, the lowest crime rate since 2005, and traffic fatalities were reduced 67%.

Said Mercer, “Sheriff Staly is a proven professional leader delivering consistently positive results for Flagler County. He has demonstrated the knowledge, experience, and relationships necessary to address complex public safety issues. Sheriff Staly is a life member of the Florida Police Chiefs Association and we are proud to support him for re-election. We look forward to Sheriff Staly’s continued leadership on behalf of the people of Flagler County and the State of Florida.”

“I am very honored to be endorsed by the Florida Police Chief’s Association,” said Sheriff Staly.

About the Florida Police Chiefs Association:
The Florida Police Chiefs Association (FPCA) is the third largest state police chief’s association in the United States. It is composed of more than 1000 of the state’s top law enforcement executives. FPCA serves municipal police departments, airport police, college and university police, school board/district police, tribal police, railroad or port authority police, private business and security firms. The FPCA has members representing every region of the state. Through conferences, seminars, and special training courses, the FPCA ensures the highest degree of preparedness and responsiveness among the state’s many agencies and officers. The Association provides a forum for sharing information on the latest crime-fighting strategies, tools and techniques. By enhancing communications between agencies at all levels, the Association fosters the highest degree of police professionalism and competence. You can learn more about the FPCA at www.fpca.com

View Endorsement Letter

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Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign Announces Another Key Endorsement

Florida Police Benevolent Association Endorses Sheriff Staly for Re-election

PRESS RELEASE 02/20/2020

BUNNELL, FL: The Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign announces another key endorsement.

The Florida Police Benevolent Association, representing state, local and county law enforcement and correctional officers, has endorsed Rick Staly for Flagler County Sheriff.

“We…ask our members, their friends and families – and all citizens in Flagler County who respect the strong and efficient enforcement of our laws, to cast their ballots in support of Rick Staly,” said Matt Pucket, Executive Director of Florida PBA.

“I am very honored to be endorsed by the men and women that serve our state as first responders that know my leadership and crime fighting the best,” said Sheriff Staly. “Having been shot on duty saving the life of a Deputy Sheriff I know the dangers our first responders face every day as I have walked in their shoes.”

Sheriff Staly was previously endorsed by Flagler County Mayors, past and current Flagler County Chairmen, police chiefs, nearby Sheriffs, local state representative and senator, state attorney, the local and state Fraternal Order of Police lodges and Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association, who represent the men and women of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office.

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View Press Release

View Endorsement Letter

Sheriff Staly and FCSO Received Regional Government Award for Excellence in Public Safety

PRESS RELEASE  12/07/2019

BUNNELL, FL: The Northeast Florida Regional Council (NEFRC) has named Sheriff Staly and the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) winner of the Leadership Award for Excellence in Public Safety.

The FCSO was nominated for the award by Flagler County Administrator Jerry Cameron for making Flagler County’s Streets and Community Safer using cutting-edge technology. The nomination highlighted the use of Rapid-ID, a secure digital fingerprint capture device that, along with software, runs the unknown individual’s fingerprints against the state and federal database of prior arrests and those with outstanding warrants, that has been implemented since Sheriff Staly was elected. In this case, if a warrant exists, the name and pertinent information is displayed to the deputy in the field or the individual’s real name is provided.

The award also highlighted the use of Automated License Plate Reader (ALPR) technology in Flagler County. The Sheriff’s Office is able to add license plate information to the system to assist with the location of persons of interest, as well as silver alerts. By using ALPR’s deputies have located criminals who have been on the fugitives for years and arrested the. This technology has directly led to a 212% increase in the recovery of stolen vehicles in 2019 and the apprehension of the suspects and missing individuals.

Finally, under Sheriff Staly’s technology vision FCSO is implemented vehicle-based camera systems in patrol vehicles. This system integrates the existing body cameras deputies are currently issued, and provides better information leading to stronger arrests and citations, as well as enhanced investigations. Sheriff Staly is also implementing a Real Time Crime Center.

“It is always an honor when government colleagues recognize your vision and success to make our community safer,” said Sheriff Staly. “Our team does a great job and the technology we have implemented since I’ve been Sheriff simply aids in their efforts to protect our citizens and the Flagler County community. It was my honor to accept this award on behalf of the hard working and dedicated men and women of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office that I have the honor to lead. This new technology has aided in us in reducing crime in Flagler County by over 25% since 2017 and traffic fatalities by over 42%.”

View Press Release

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Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign Announces Campaign Milestones and Setting New Records

PRESS RELEASE 12/06/19

BUNNELL, FL: In less than 60 days, the Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign has received over $80,000.00 in contributions and received over 20 endorsements. In addition, the campaign received more than 1,200 candidate petitions signed by Flagler County voters in just two weeks and received the Candidate Petition Certification from the Supervisor of Elections in just three weeks after Rick Staly filed for re-election.

“I am very humbled and appreciative of the overwhelming community support I am receiving since announcing my re-election campaign,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “This support is reflective in the amount of money we have raised so quickly, how fast we obtained enough signed petitions to have my name placed on the ballot without having to pay a filing fee and the impressive list of endorsements. But mostly I appreciate the community confirming the direction, effectiveness and leadership I have provided to the Sheriff’s Office and wanting it to continue for another four years.”

In November, the Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign raised a total of $53,756.85, setting a record level of support for Flagler County campaigns in one month. In the 59 days of mandatory financial reporting since Sheriff Staly filed for re-election the Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign has raised a total of $80,526.40, again a record amount in such a short time for a Flagler County campaign.

Sheriff Staly has received endorsements from local Mayors, Police Chiefs, Sheriff’s, State Representative and Senator, Clerk of the Court and police unions that all want to “Keep Rick Staly Sheriff.” “I am very proud and honored that so many elected officials support my campaign and see the good things we are doing together in Flagler County,” said Sheriff Staly. “I am especially proud of the endorsements from the Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association, which represents the Sheriff’s Office employees, and the Fraternal Order of Police both locally and the State Lodge that represent over 22,000 law enforcement officers. These are the groups and people that know my vision and leadership the best and know I have the community and their backs all the time.”

Visit www.RickStaly.com/Endorsements to see and read all the endorsements.

View Press Release

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Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign Announces Additional Key Endorsements

Fraternal Order of Police Florida State Lodge and Local Officials

PRESS RELEASE 12/02/2019

BUNNELL, FL: The Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign announces two additional key endorsements.
The Florida State Lodge Fraternal Order of Police, representing 22,000 Florida law enforcement officers, has
endorsed Rick Staly for Flagler County Sheriff.

“The Fraternal Order Of Police have endorsed Rick Staly and admire his dedication to his community and his
history of being a fair and equitable Sheriff in Flagler County,” said Robert Jenkins, President, Florida Fraternal
Order Of Police. “We believe his dedication to serving his community will inspire the citizens of Flagler
County to move forward to a prosperous and safe future.”

Current County Chairman David Sullivan also endorsed keeping Rick Staly Sheriff of Flagler County. “A solid
professional in all aspects,” said Sullivan. “Proves everyday that he is one of the top Sheriff’s in the state leading
our great Sheriff’s Department and its wonderful corps of Deputies.”

Flagler County Clerk of the Court and Comptroller Tom Bexley endorsed Sheriff Staly for re-election stating
“Sheriff Staly and I have worked together on a number of issues. I have always found him to be a man of
integrity and a great steward of public safety. Under his leadership, I have witnessed a renewed commitment to
crime prevention and professionalism throughout his organization.”

“I am very honored to be endorsed by the men and women that serve our state as first responders that know my
leadership the best,” said Sheriff Staly. “It’s an honor to be endorsed by other community leaders too.”

Sheriff Staly was previously endorsed by Flagler County Mayors, past County Chairman, police chiefs, nearby
Sheriffs, local state representative and senator, state attorney, the local Fraternal Order of Police lodges and
Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association.

View Press Release

View Florida FOP Endorsement

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Sheriff Staly Endorsed by Mayors, County Chairman, Police Chiefs, Sheriffs, Prosecutor, State Representative, Flagler Clerk of Court and Comptroller and State Senator for Re-election

PRESS RELEASE  11/20/2019

BUNNELL, FL:  Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly continues to receive endorsements by community leaders, police chiefs, sheriffs and prosecutor in his campaign for re-election.

“I am honored to receive these endorsements,” said Sheriff Staly. “Community leaders, mayors, sheriffs, police chiefs, first responders, state and County officials and our prosecutor have spoken. Keep Rick Staly Sheriff.”

“I am pleased to endorse Rick Staly for Sheriff,” said Bunnell Mayor Robinson. “He has done a great job leading his team…” Added County Commission Chairman Donald O’Brien, “Rick is a compassionate, innovative leader who has built a strong team.”

“Rick Staly is the Sheriff every county would like to have…Sheriff Staly has significantly reduced crime in Flagler County since taking office. He has my enthusiastic endorsement to continue the great work he began and he works tirelessly to keep our community safe,” said State Representative Paul Renner.

“…Sheriff Staly’s leadership has made Flagler County a better and safer community,” said R.J. Larizza, State Attorney for the 7th Judicial Circuit. Added St. Johns County Sheriff David Shoar, “Sheriff Staly  has dedicated himself to the safety of citizens…and is respected by all as a true leader.”

Sheriff Staly has been endorsed by the following community leaders for re-election who all want to “Keep Rick Staly Sheriff.”

• Palm Coast Mayor Milissa Holland
• County Chairman Donald O’Brien
• Flagler Beach Mayor Linda Provencher
• Bunnell Mayor Catherine Robinson
• Beverly Beach Mayor Steve Emmett
• Brevard County Sheriff Wayne Ivey
• 7th Circuit State Attorney R.J. Larizza
• Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood
• Matt Doughney
• Tom Foster
• State Representative Paul Renner
• State Senator Travis Hutson
• St. Johns County Sheriff David Shoar
• Flagler Clerk of Court Tom Bexley

Sheriff Staly was previously endorsed by the Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association, which represents FCSO union employees, Flagler County Professional Firefighters Association, Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 165 and Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #171.

View Press Release

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Sheriff Staly Announces Firefighters and Additional Law Enforcement Endorsements

Flagler County Professional Firefighters Association IAFF # 4337 and Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 165 Endorse Staly for 2020 Election

PRESS RELEASE  11/18/2019

BUNNELL, FL: The Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign announces two additional key endorsements received by prominent law enforcement and firefighter organizations.

The Flagler County Professional Firefighters Association Local 4337 and part of the International Association of Firefighters has endorsed Sheriff Rick Staly for re-election. The Flagler County Professional Firefighters Association represents all Flagler County Fire/Rescue Division Firefighters and EMTs.

“…[We] proudly endorse Sheriff Rick Staly for the 2020 election,” said Stephen D. Palmer, President of FCPFA. “Sheriff Rick Staly has proven to lead the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office [in] a positive direction over his last term as Sheriff with the best interest of the citizens of Flagler County and the men and women to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office in mind.”

“You have demonstrated that you are committed to the citizens of Flagler County, and to the men and women of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office,” said Dominic Guida, President of FOP Lodge 165. “As Sheriff you have been proactive in your response to community problems, which is evident by the reduction of crime in our community.”

The Fraternal Order of Police, Flagler Fallen Heroes Lodge 165, represents and is comprised of active local Law Enforcement and Corrections Officers.

“I am very honored to be endorsed by the first responders that serve our community daily and know my leadership the best,” said Sheriff Staly.

Sheriff Staly was previously endorsed by the Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association and Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 171 for his 2020 re-election.

VIEW Press Release

VIEW Endorsement Letter from Flagler County Professional Firefighters Association IAFF#4337

VIEW Endorsement Letter from Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 165

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Sheriff Staly Kicks Off 2020 Campaign

Hosts Successful Fundraiser on November 9th with special guest Lieutenant Colonel Oliver North

PRESS RELEASE 11/9/2019

BUNNELL, FL: Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly kicked off his 2020 re-election campaign with a fun, western-themed fundraiser at the Phillips Ranch in Bunnell, Florida, with special guest Lt. Colonel Oliver North, USMC (Ret.).

“I am thankful to have served the citizens of Flagler County since 2017. With your support, we’ve been successful in reducing crime and making our neighborhoods safer,” said Sheriff Staly. “With the community’s involvement, crime is down over 25% and traffic fatalities are down 42%. There’s still more work to do. Our 2020 Campaign is about continuing our successful programs and initiatives to pro-actively fight crime and to maintain the exceptional quality of life we enjoy in Flagler County.”

“Rick Staly is one of America’s top law enforcement leaders,” stated Lieutenant Colonel Oliver North, “He’s had an incredible impact on reducing crime.  I am pleased today to join with his family and supporters in kicking-off his 2020 Campaign to re-elect Rick Staly as your Sheriff!”

During the event, Sheriff Staly expressed appreciation for two key endorsements which he has received from the Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association (PBA) and Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge 171, organizations which represent both current employees of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office and retired law enforcement, corrections and public safety officers.

The fundraiser will be held at the beautiful Phillips Ranch in Bunnell, which is owned by the Phillips family, who raise beef cattle and performance quarter horses.

VIEW Press Release

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Sheriff Staly Announces Law Enforcement Endorsements Coastal Florida PBA and Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #171 Endorse Stalv for 2020 Election

PRESS RELEASE 11/1/2019

The Keep Rick Staly Sheriff Campaign announces two key endorsements received by prominent law enforcement organizations. The Coastal Florida Police Benevolent Association, which represents all FCSO law enforcement and detention deputies including sergeants and corporals and most of the professional support staff voted overwhelmingly to endorse Rick Staly in his 2020 re-election bid.

“Law Enforcement Officers today need real leadership more than ever before. We know Sheriff Staly supports his deputies, and that is why they support him equally as much,” said Mike Scudiero, Executive Director of the Coastal Florida PBA. “The citizens of Flagler have a true team effort with Sheriff Staly and our membership. That’s a winning combination for everyone involved, and it’s a principal reason why the PBA members in Flagler county have overwhelmingly chosen to support him for re-election. Crime is down, the community is safer, and these law enforcement professionals are working harder than ever, and they’d prefer to keep working with a true leader like Rick Staly.”

The Fraternal Order of Police, Ptl. Phillip Cardillo Memorial Lodge #171, which counts as its members retired and former law enforcement officers, correction officers and other public safety officials “enthusiastically endorses” Rick Staly in his re-election as Sheriff. “In three short years you have brought new enthusiasm to Flagler County, invigorated the Law Enforcement Community and introduced a new level of technology to reducing crime, threats and risks posed to us all,” said Ron Conklin, President of FOP #171 . “As fellow members of the Flagler County community, we are proud to see the steps you have already taken and excited to see what the future holds…under your dedicated leadership.”

“I am very honored to be endorsed by the men and women that serve our community daily and know my leadership the best,” said Sheriff Staly. “It is also humbling to be endorsed by a group of retired and former public servants that know first-hand what it takes to serve the community.”

• Coastal Florida PBA – Endorsement Letter

• FOP Lodge 171 – Endorsement Letter

CONTACTS: Bob Weber, 386-264-5593  OR  Rick Staly, 386-227-7849, 407-973-9238, Email:  Rick@RickStaly.com

Political Advertisement Paid for and Approved by Rick Staly, Republican, for Flagler County Sheriff

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Flagler Sheriff Rick Staly: Progress on confronting domestic violence

Progress begins when communities decide a serious social problem is not acceptable

GUEST OPINION COLUMN – DAYTONA BEACH NEWS-JOURNAL, 10/27/2019

by SHERIFF RICK STALY

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month and in Flagler County we are reducing domestic violence. Cases of domestic violence in Flagler County are down 7.1% and violations of domestic violence injunctions have decreased by 55.7% in Flagler County in 2019. How did this happen?

Progress beginds when communities decide a serious social problem is not acceptable. In June 2017, 55 community partners met to form our first ever-Domestic Violence Task Force in Flagler County. Our team united leaders from social services, mental health/medical services, education, faith-based services, and criminal justice for a comprehensive analysis and understanding of the problem.

In October 2017, we produced a community-driven plan based upon nationally recognized best practices involving strategies, technology along with grant funding – tools all aimed at increasing public awareness, educating and holding offenders accountable to decrease domestic violence overall. For accountability, we regularly meet and analyze results of our new system-wide approach.

Grant funding from the Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence now makes it possible for us to have a dedicated detective and crime analyst, community education and technology to aid investigations.

Monitoring offenders with electronic GPS ankle bracelets, which alert law enforcement if offenders should attempt to get near victims or tamper with the device, and swift accountability for those in violation of court orders is effective. And, the offenders pay for the cost of this monitoring instead of the taxpayer.

Victims now know they have a community-wide system in place that puts their protection first.

One victim is one victim too many but together, our community is making real progress on domestic violence.

Rick Staly, Bunnell

Staly is sheriff of Flagler County. If you or someone you know is a victim of domestic violence, call the state Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-500-1119.

https://www.news-journalonline.com/opinion/20191027/flagler-sheriff-rick-staly-progress-on-confronting-domestic-violence–letters

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Sheriff Staly Receives over 1,000 Signed Candidate Petitions in just 14 Days for his 2020 Election

PRESS RELEASE 10/21/2019

BUNNELL, FL:  Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly and campaign volunteers and supporters have collected over 1,000 signed Candidate Petitions from voters in Flagler County in just 14 days. Under Florida election law Sheriff Staly is required to obtain 827 signed and certified petitions or pay a qualifying fee of over $8,000.00 for his name to appear on the 2020 election ballot.

“The overwhelming support and positive comments I have received from the community while obtaining these petitions has been humbling and a confirmation of the new direction implemented when I was elected,” said Sheriff Staly .  “Our volunteer team worked quickly to get these petitions so my name will appear on the 2020 election ballot without having to pay the qualifying fee.  We probably set a record for how quickly this many petitions were obtained for a county-wide race.  Thank you to a great team and the community for your support to keep me as your Sheriff!”

The candidate petitions have been turned in to the Supervisor of Elections Office (SOE) who is in the process of certifying the petitions are valid Flagler County voters.  Once the SOE certifies 827 petitions Sheriff Staly’s name will be guaranteed to be on the 2020 election ballot.

For more information on Sheriff Staly visit www.RickStaly.com

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CONTACTS: Bob Weber, 386-264-5593  OR  Rick Staly, 386-227-7849, 407-973-9238, Email: Rick@RickStaly.com

 

 

Sheriff Staly Files for Re-election

PRESS RELEASE  10/2/2019

BUNNELL, FL:  Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly filed paperwork with the Flagler County Supervisor of Elections office today seeking a second term as Flagler County Sheriff.

“I have been honored to serve the citizens of Flagler County and leading the outstanding men and women of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office since 2017,” said Sheriff Staly.  “Under my leadership we have a motivated team, new programs and initiatives  that has driven crime down over -25% and traffic fatalities down -42%  since I was elected.  Together, we can keep these initiatives working for our community.”

Sheriff Staly was elected Sheriff of Flagler County on November 8, 2016 and took office on January 3, 2017.  Sheriff Staly has a Master’s degree in Justice Administration, graduated from the FBI National Academy and the National Sheriff’s Institute.  He was awarded the Medal of Valor and the Governor’s Medal of Heroism after being shot three times while saving the life of a Deputy Sheriff.  Sheriff Staly recently received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Florida Sheriff’s Association and is a Life member of the National Sheriff’s Association and the Florida Police Chief’s Association. Sheriff Staly also holds certification in Homeland Security and serves on various Boards and Committees on the Florida Sheriff’s Association and the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranches.

Coming soon will be Sheriff Staly’s official campaign website: www.RickStaly.com

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CONTACTS: Bob Weber, 386-264-5593  OR  Rick Staly, 386-227-7849, 407-973-9238, Email:  Rick@RickStaly.com