From the Field

Supporting Deputies Through New Leadership and Relief Efforts

This is my first opportunity to address readers as the president of the Florida Deputy Sheriffs Association, and I could not be prouder of what this organization stands for and what has been accomplished. Thanks to the leadership of past presidents Sheriff Rick Staly and Sheriff AJ Smith, the last two years have seen great growth in membership and generosity to our deputies and other team members of sheriffs’ offices across the state.

New Leadership, New Programs for 2024

At the recent FSA Summer conference, I had the opportunity to update the sheriffs on the continued progress and growth of the Florida Deputy Sheriffs Association. We now have 53 (of 67) sheriffs’ offices providing FDSA membership, and half of those counties are also providing the legal benefit. That growth means that thousands more of our deputies are receiving needed benefits for themselves and their families.

FDSA Experiencing Explosive Growth

The Florida Deputy Sheriffs Association was created to provide benefits and support to Florida deputies and other sheriff's office personnel. And over the years, our insurance policies, educational trust benefits and legal counsel have been invaluable for our members. And as you know, our Lend-A-Hand program has provided hundreds of thousands of dollars to deputies and their families in their time of greatest need -- often within 24 hours.

FDSA Growth Remains Strong

Last year was another banner year for the Florida Deputy Sheriffs Association. At the recent FSA Winter Annual Conference, I had the honor of updating the sheriffs and others in attendance about the amazing work FDSA is doing to serve its membership. Speaking of membership, in 2022 we topped 18,000 members for the first time. That represents 11% growth over last year and a huge jump from our 11,000 members just five years ago. There has also been a large increase in memberships that include legal representation. That number is now over 6,000 deputies.

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