THE FIRST CALL
All of our deputies go through rigorous training, but the job doesn’t truly become real until they respond to that first call. That’s when the responsibility becomes real and service becomes a calling for all our agency members.

BEHIND THE SCENES
At CCSO, everyone works together to protect our community. While our law enforcement officers keep the streets safe, a robust team of 465 civilian staff members work behind the scenes to support and assist them. That includes technicians, IT specialists, administrators and the rest of our professional staff working hand-in-hand with deputies.

In an emergency, our 911 call-takers and dispatcher are often the first people to help. Their calm during chaos offers reassurance when it’s needed most.

Dispatcher Lucia Garcia-Ribeyro found that out on April 13, 2021, when a woman called 911 to report her husband was in cardiac arrest. Garcia-Ribeyro gave first aid instructions over the phone until EMTs arrived. Not only did the man survive, but he and his wife sent flowers and a thank you card on the one-year anniversary.

“We will never forget her and her part in saving his life,” the wife told CCSO.

LEARNING THE COMMUNITY
Policing is not just about enforcing laws. It’s about building relationships. 

The Corkscrew Middle School Hawks were looking at another winless basketball season _ this time without a coach. CCSO Sgt. Johnny Cisnero and Cpl. Matt Vail stepped in, seizing the opportunity to connect with students in their district and teach lessons that extended beyond the court, while leading the team to the playoffs.

“I know for a fact we made a difference in some of these kids’ lives and most likely changed their perception of ‘cops,’” Sgt. Cisnero said.

TRAINING FOR TOMORROW
When a Good Samaritan was shot in the chest trying to protect a mother and her children during a domestic incident in Ave Maria in 2024, CCSO Cpl. Richard Jacobs was the first responder on scene.

Cpl. Jacobs immediately began treating the victim, 51-year-old Manuel Milanes, using Quickclot Combat Gauze from the Go Bag in his patrol car. He packed the gunshot wound and maintained steady pressure until the bleeding was controlled.

The Sheriff's Star

Youth Relations Cpl. Alison DiSarro exemplifies the integrity and trust symbolized by the star she wears. For more than 20 years, she has shown up at Collier County schools – the last 10 years at Naples High School, every school day, building relationships, mentoring students, and providing a steady caring presence. Her long-standing commitment reflects the true service to Collier County’s youth and community. 

Safe Communities Don't Happen by Accident

Safe roads don’t happen by accident. They are the result of consistent presence, preparation, and partnership. CCSO is proud to work alongside the Florida Highway Patrol. Our Safety & Traffic Enforcement Bureau deputies regularly collaborate with FHP troopers on operations promoting safe driving and lawful activity on our roads. From commercial vehicle safety checks to school zone speed enforcement and from DUI patrols to highway interdiction operations targeting traffickers and criminals who use the I-75 corridor to move narcotics and contraband into Southwest Florida, deputies and troopers work together to prevent crashes and protect lives. That level of safety doesn’t happen by chance.

Each shift begins with a briefing where deputies come together to share information, expectations and responsibility. Here, as the sun sets outside of our District 8 substation in Immokalee, Sgt. Cluchey meets with the overnight patrol deputies as they discuss how they will serve and secure their beats for the next 12 hours. These briefings set the tone for respectful, professional service to our community.

Respect is Standard

Professionalism means treating everyone with dignity, regardless of circumstances. Deputies understand that respect builds cooperation and trust, even during difficult moments. After receiving a speeding citation, the driver was so impressed with Corporal Harle’s respectful manner that he wrote us this public commendation:

“The Deputy was courteous and polite. He chose not only to be a cop but a Peace Officer and a stellar Civil Servant. We shook hands at least twice and he was kind enough to impede traffic so I could get across a few lanes to my lefthand turn. Do I like paying speeding tickets? No. Do I hope every future interaction with law enforcement is handled with the level of courtesy and professionalism demonstrated today? Oh yeah.”

A Knock at the Door

Sometimes service begins with a welfare check, a knock to ensure someone is OK. And sometimes that knock is what saves a person’s life.

We recently received a note that started “Two weeks ago I tried to kill myself. I was saved by the four deputies who came pounding on my door.” Those deputies didn’t give up, they knocked, knocked, and knocked again. They finally made entry with the help of a concerned friend who had a key. That friend had reached out to 911 after receiving what they fear was a suicide note.

We care. Your friends care. If you need help, call or text 988.

Training for Calm

In a safe community, the expectation is consistency and calm. CCSO deputies train in a variety of ways, not just to protect themselves and the public in dangerous situations, but also to help de-escalate situations involving an individual in crisis. This video shows just a glimpse of that training. 

Public safety looks different at every stage of life. From supporting young families to mentoring students in schools to checking on our senior neighbors, we are committed to serving all of Collier County. We’re here to meet the needs of every generation.

Before a hurricane ever makes landfall, our Fleet Services and Procurement bureaus are already hard at work. Fleet ensures Patrol and other essential agency vehicles are serviced, fueled and storm-ready, while Procurement secures vital supplies – from generators and fuel to food, water and medical gear. Their behind-the-scenes work keeps deputies moving, equipped and ready to serve our community when it matters most.

A field training officer’s quiet leadership is where an agency’s standards and values are often formed. The FTO leads with presence, not rank. They stay calm when a trainee is overwhelmed, correct in private and genuinely check in after a difficult call. Their quiet leadership doesn’t just train deputies to do the job, it teaches them how to be deputies.

From Summerfest to Cool Winter Nights and everything in between, Collier County Sheriff’s Office community events bring deputies and residents together beyond the badge. These moments build trust, strengthen relationships, and create meaningful connections because strong community partnerships are the foundation of public safety.

Measure of Service 

Our service to our community isn’t measured by crime statistics alone – it’s also measured by the confidence that help is always nearby. That was the case last school year when Youth Relations Bureau Cpl. Elda Hernandez noticed a student choking during lunch at Highlands Elementary School in Immokalee. Because Cpl. Hernandez was nearby, she was able to act fast, performing the Heimlich maneuver on the student and saving her life. Cpl. Hernandez earned a Life Saving Award for her act, and Novalynn (shown here) is now thriving. 

Our deputies are in the community every day, learning the rhythms of the neighborhoods they keep safe. Here our District 3 deputies interact with residents at a recent Coffee With A Cop event in East Naples. CCSO regularly holds these events around the county to get to know the problems and concerns of citizens. These bonds allow deputies to address the needs of the neighborhood.

The Value of Consistency

Service means showing up every day, without fail, to help the community. Our duty officers Cpl. Chuck Campbell (left) and Cpl. Ervin Garriga (right) are the epitome of consistency. Cpl. Campbell has been with CCSO for 48 years. Cpl. Garriga has been here 20 years – all of them spent in the duty office, which serves as the welcome desk for residents at our headquarters. Including their previous law enforcement experience, Cpl. Campbell and Cpl. Garriga have a combined 95 years of public service. They offer a steady presence of safety for anyone needing help at CCSO.

Courtesy as a Practice

“How can I help you?”

On average CCSO dispatchers answer roughly 1000 calls per day. 1000! About 400 of those are emergency calls to 911 and the remaining are non-emergency calls.

Yes, they are efficient. The jobs requires it. But courtesy isn’t optional; it’s practiced daily. Polite words and patience reflect respect for the community and the badge.

School Zones and Sidewalks

This is Marina Trejo. Marina serves in the Immokalee community as a crossing guard at Pinecrest Elementary. And every day, Marina serves with a smile. Like Pete at East Naples Middle School and Lisa at Pelican Marsh Elementary, her mission is to ensure children arrive safely to school—one of the simplest and most important forms of service that CCSO provides.

Care, Custody, Control

The job of our Correctional Officers is to maintain the care, custody and control of inmates at the Naples Jail Center. However, Deputy Garrett Nottle took that role to the next level. After working a 12-hour shift, Deputy Nottle found two baby bunnies in the cold rain outside the jail. The bunnies showed signs of distress, so Deputy Nottle wrapped them in a warm towel and took them to the Conservancy of Southwest Florida, where they recovered. Deputy Nottle showcased the care, custody, and control that CCSO uses to serve our community.

Dispatch at Dawn

While Collier County is sleeping, CCSO’s Emergency Communications Center is helping to keep the community safe. We have telecommunicators working around the clock. Before the sun comes up, our team of dispatchers are preparing to start the dayshift, taking over for those who manned our 911 and non-emergency phone lines overnight. At this predawn shift briefing, critical information is passed on from the night shift to ensure continuity of operations.

We rely on our relationships with the community to keep Collier County safe. Reporting concerns early helps us address any issues. That’s why Sheriff Rambosk encourages everyone to contact us whenever they see suspicious activity. If you see it, say it, or send it by texting 911.

Bambi Paolucci’s wedding ring (and band) flew off her finger in a Naples parking lot as she was getting her kiddo into her van. The jewelry just seemed to disappear. According to Bambi, after hours of searching, two heroes arrived in the form of CCSO Community Service Deputies. CSDs Jakob Kowal and Isabel Muguerza scoured the parking lot, chatted up nearby folks, and even helped wield the metal detector Bambi got in a last-ditch effort to help find her beloved rings. CSD Muguerza suggested returning later in the dark with a flashlight (to catch the reflection) and that turned out to be the key! Despite a little damage, the beloved jewelry was found.

“Words cannot fully express how grateful I am that Collier County has officers like Deputies Muguerza and Kowal serving and watching over our community. Their dedication, kindness, and humanity exemplify what community policing truly means.”

In this Sunday’s Super Bowl, Collier County’s own D’Ernest Johnson (center in this photo) could win a championship ring as a member of the New England Patriots. But before he was a seven-year NFL veteran, Johnson grew up in Immokalee being coached and mentored by CCSO deputy Tim Howell (right).

Deputy Howell was raised in Immokalee, then hired as a Youth Relations Deputy in 1984 and assigned to Immokalee High School. He’s spent the past 35 years coaching football in his hometown and has now coached three players who have appeared in the Super Bowl.

“I have been blessed with many wins in coaching, but my greatest reward is watching my boys grow into responsible young men and earn their high school diplomas,” Deputy Howell said. “That is the true victory, and it is the reason I continue to serve this community by wearing the badge or coach's hat with pride.”

Upholding privacy while maintaining transparency isn’t a contradiction. It’s a commitment.

We proudly comply with Florida Statute 119, which requires certain information to be redacted before records are released (e.g., victim contact information. That responsibility is shared across multiple teams, including Redactions, Media Relations and Central Records. And it takes eagle eyes and patience.

It also goes beyond reviewing written reports to carefully examining photos and video—frame by frame—to ensure sensitive information is protected while the public stays informed.

Transparency matters. Privacy matters. We are committed to doing both—accurately, lawfully, and with care.

Listening. It’s a critical part of the job for Crisis Call Diversion Counselor Meghan Ptaszynski. Deputy Ptaszynski and her fellow diversion counselors are members of our Behavioral Health Bureau who work in our 911 Center.  They have backgrounds in the behavioral health profession and work alongside Dispatchers answering 911 and non-emergency calls.

“When someone calls 911 chances are they’re already not having a good day” she said. “If they’re panicking, I listen to them and talk to them and help them stay calm until deputies arrive. Those are my favorite calls because I feel like I’m really making a difference for someone.”

They offer a hand to hold, a shoulder to lean on and an ear to listen. CCSO Victim Advocates work around the clock helping victims cope with the crisis they are facing. From responding to crime scenes to supporting victims through court cases that can last years, they provide compassion, resources and guidance, allowing detectives to focus on investigating while victims are never left to navigate the process alone.

Teamwork Across Shifts

At CCSO, when one Patrol shift ends another begins. In fact, it never ends. Ensuring continuous service through shift work is essential for maintaining safety and accountability. For example, a  car break-in that happened on the night shift is handled seamlessly as one shift hands off to the next, ensuring the victim still receives a timely and thorough response.

Twenty years of knowledge, experience, and a smile. Jill Tracy works at the front desk in our North Naples substation and for many residents, she is their first interaction with the Sheriff’s Office. Her favorite part of the job, she says, is solving problems. It makes her the perfect fit. She stays busy answering just about every question under the sun and those unique to her district. Here are some she gets daily:

• How do I report identity theft?
• Where can I get an out-of-state VIN verification form?
• Can I pay my ticket here?
• Where do I go for fingerprints?
• Can I have my dog on the beach?

And for those curious …

• To report ID theft, go to colliersheriff.org and click the “File a Report” button.
• For out-of-state VIN verification, download Form HSMV 82040 and bring the completed form, the out-of-state title (or registration), and proof of Florida insurance to the local tax collector’s office. 
• To pay a traffic citation, go to collierclerk.com and click “Make a payment”.
• Fingerprinting takes place Tuesdays 9-11 a.m. and Thursdays 1-3 p.m. at 2373 Horseshoe Drive N. (enter through the west lobby).
• Dogs are not permitted at Collier County beaches.

Katherine Campo consistently goes above and beyond, frequently showcasing her talent by singing the national anthem at various events. She is also known for taking extra steps in her role as Records Specialist.

Behind every case at CCSO is a system of accountability. Evidence Technicians safeguard property and information with precision, patience and attention to detail. Each piece tells a story.

When the signal is clear, so is the mission. Justin Koval (right), manager of our Communications Technology Bureau, and equipment specialist Seth Braun work to make sure the signal stays crisp across the airwaves. The Communications Technology Bureau maintains 3,000 deputy radios and 1,800 administrative phone lines here at CCSO. Manager Koval and his team also frequently respond to areas across the Southeastern United States that have been hit by storms and help them restore communications.

CCSO deputies stay physically ready to respond. Every certified law enforcement officer and corrections officer must pass the Physical Abilities Test every two years. New recruits applying for those positions must also pass the test to be considered for employment.

Sgt. Fletch Fuller, who works in our training bureau, is shown in this video administering the test to current deputies.

“It is designed to test your muscular strength, muscular endurance and flexibility over an obstacle course that takes you over, under and around a series of obstacles,” Sgt. Fuller said. “You also have to move a simulated casualty 100 feet. That simulated casualty represents someone who needs to be pulled to safety if they are unconscious and in a dangerous place like a burning structure or a kill zone if they have been shot in the street.” Click here to watch the video.

At CCSO, we’re not just building a strong and safe community, we’re helping to shape the next generation of confident young women. If you want to see girl power in action, look no further than our “You Can Do It All” program. Female deputies mentor young female students, spending a week teaching everything from self-defense to mental strength to CPR. The goal is to empower these young women as they enter adolescence. Female deputies mentoring young females in our community – it was meant to be.

Volunteers play an essential role at CCSO, serving as a vital force multiplier by supporting everything from community outreach to administrative tasks. Perhaps nowhere in the agency is the spirit of volunteerism more evident, or more essential, than our Community Emergency Response Team. CERT members are specially trained volunteers who assist emergency responders in saving lives and protecting property during hurricanes, wildfires and other crises. They also support deputies during missing person searches. CERT volunteers serve our community by taking the time to get trained so they can help themselves, their neighbors and first responders during an emergency.

To learn more about the CERT program, visit www.colliersheriff.org or email CCSO at CollierSheriffCERT@colliersheriff.org

Professional Appearance

This is Lt. Ron Turi. He and his Collier County Sheriff’s Office colleagues understand that a deputy’s uniform and equipment are symbols of professionalism, preparedness and public trust.

A well-maintained uniform isn’t solely about appearance. It reflects discipline, attention to detail and a respect for the responsibility that comes with the badge. And each piece of equipment, from body-worn cameras to radios and medical gear must be clean, functional and ready at a moment’s notice. When deputies take the time to inspect and care for their uniforms and equipment, they are making sure they can respond safely, professionally and effectively no matter what the next call brings.

From Finance to IT, civilian members ensure the Collier County Sheriff’s Office operates efficiently and transparently. The agency’s more than 460 civilian members manage budgets, maintain critical systems, support investigations, and assist the public, enabling deputies to focus on public safety while the community receives reliable and accountable service.  

Leading a law enforcement Professional Responsibility Bureau requires someone with unquestioned integrity, sound judgment and the courage to make fair decisions, even when they are difficult. The task of the PRB is to investigate allegations of member misconduct. Lt. Adam Hall has led the Collier County Sheriff’s Office’s Professional Responsibility Bureau for nearly three years.

A 21-year CCSO veteran, Hall and his team of four sergeants and a case management specialist approach every case with impartiality and professionalism. Their commitment to transparency and accountability strengthens trust both within the agency and the community, helping the Sheriff’s Office to better serve and protect Collier County residents.
Click here to watch the video

Troopers were pursuing a fleeing suspect in a blue Lexus southbound on I-75 on Jan. 31 when CCSO Cpl. Robert Goodman stepped in to help near mile marker 108. The Lexus was traveling at more than 100 mph, but Cpl. Goodman remained calm, walked into the roadway and deployed stop sticks. Three of the Lexus’s four tires quickly deflated, allowing troopers to box-in the vehicle and take the suspect into custody.

Cpl. Goodman made the maneuver look easy, but it’s anything but. Deploying stop sticks is a high-risk move that requires precise timing and training. He credits his success to the repetition and hands-on practice he received from his CCSO training, which helped him become comfortable and confident with the equipment.

That experience is also why, as a field training officer, Cpl. Goodman insisted new recruits practice the maneuver.

“My training and practice got me familiar with stop sticks,” he said. “Without that training and familiarity, I wouldn’t have been successful.” Click here to watch body camera footage.

THERE FOR THE UNEXPECTED

Keeping things MOO-ving. In this line of work, things don’t always go as expected. On Tuesday, Cpl. David Mercado was working a traffic operation to help crack down on speeding on State Road 82. He made multiple stops all morning and issued citations when warranted. Then there was this … a rogue cow on the road. Cpl. Mercado provided traffic assistance, along with FHP, while the cow’s owner safely lassoed the bovine to get it back to greener pastures.

Click here to watch the video

Unique Collaboration

To stay at the top of their game, the CCSO Hostage Negotiations Team regularly partners with the professional actors from The Naples Players. While it might look like a rehearsal, the stakes in these exercises feel incredibly real.

By working with trained performers, our negotiators are immersed in dynamic, high-pressure scenarios that mirror the unpredictability of real-world crises. These sessions push our team to adapt in real-time to complex emotional cues and evolving dialogue, ensuring their communication skills are razor-sharp.

Team members consistently report that this unique collaboration provides a level of realism that traditional training can’t match. Thanks to this partnership, your CCSO negotiators are better prepared, more confident, and ready to respond when the community needs them most.          

Empowering Parents: The Autism Support Project

CCSO’s Autism Support Project, led by Sgt. Dan McDonald, actively engages with parents through partnerships with Collier County Public Schools to share invaluable resources and ideas. By reaching out to parents, we aim to create a collaborative environment that fosters improved behaviors and learning both at school and at home. Our team works with parents to troubleshoot challenges, ensuring that every child receives the support they need to thrive.

 In addition to working with parents, Sgt. McDonald’s team engages with educators and community partners to devise effective strategies for supporting students with autism. Sgt. McDonald emphasizes that communication is the cornerstone of the Project, urging parents to maintain an active role in their child's education and development.

This commitment to communication and collaboration was highlighted at the recent ESE Expo at Lely High School. This free event provided an excellent opportunity for parents to connect with professionals and discover local resources supporting children from pre-K through high school and beyond. By participating in such events, our Project aims to empower parents with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively support their children's journey through life and in their successes along the way.  

Protecting our community is a shared effort. CCSO works closely with our public safety partners to keep our citizens safe. One example of our collaboration came in August 2022 when CCSO and North Collier Fire & Rescue teamed up to rescue two hikers. Another public safety partner, Collier County EMS, took care of the hikers once they were flown to safety. Watch the dramatic rescue here.

Click here to watch the video

As our community evolves, so does our agency. We’re growing with Collier County. As the population increases in the eastern part of our county, CCSO has expanded our substations in District 4 (Golden Gate Estates) and District 8 (Immokalee). In recent years both substations have added dispatch centers to better respond to the needs of those areas. In this photo our telecommunicators go through training in the new District 8 dispatch center.

The men and women of CCSO act with integrity every day – and we praise those who do the same. That’s why we started our Do The Right Thing program, which recognizes area youth for good deeds and acts of heroism. Like the third-grader who stood up to bullying. Or the fourth-grader who not only reported a burglary but gave a detailed description leading to the suspect’s arrest. Or the elementary school student who helped save her classmate from choking. All of these students were recognized for their service and kindness at the most recent Do The Right Thing awards ceremony.

 They aren’t on the front lines protecting the community, but CCSO’s Information Technology professionals are essential to our mission of keeping Collier County safe.

Systems Support Analyst Jose Navarro and his IT colleagues maintain networks, protect sensitive data, support software and respond to issues at all hours when they’re needed.

When everything works the way it should, it’s easy to overlook the people who make it happen. But their work is critical to every call for service, every investigation and every interaction with the community.

In 1974 the Collier County Sheriff’s Office became the first law enforcement agency in Florida to place Youth Relations deputies inside schools.

More than 50 years later, that decision still shapes the lives of students across Collier County.

The relationship between CCSO and Collier County Public Schools is built on trust, shared responsibility and a deep commitment to every child who walks onto a campus.

When Sheriff Rambosk created his groundbreaking Laced & Lethal fentanyl awareness campaign, CCPS Superintendent Leslie Ricciardelli was on board from the beginning. Youth Relations Bureau deputies educated students, provided informational flyers to parents and hung banners at high schools across the county. The goal: to ensure that families had the information they needed to keep children safe.

That same level of partnership led to CCSO’s nationally recognized threat management program. It’s a proactive, collaborative program that focuses on prevention and helps keep schools safe.

Together CCSO and CCPS work together daily to keep students safe.

“As long as I'm here, I will always do this event because we get to interact with the kids and it's a great day for our deputies.”-Sgt. Melvin Gonzalez.

Excitement filled the air as 300 eager young anglers gathered for the 18^th annual Kids Love Fishing event earlier this month. Organized by the County Sheriff's Office and the Junior Deputies League, the day was about more than fishing—it was about building trust with the community’s youth.

Deputies showed the kids how to bait hooks with live worms. The deputies also taught casting, mirrored by enthusiastic little hands.

The free refreshments kept spirits high, and the camaraderie between deputies and participants highlighted the event's success, fostering trust and community spirit beyond the final cast. Sheriff Rambosk believes positive interactions with young people lay the foundation for respect, understanding, and cooperation later in life.

Click here to watch the video

Just when you thought they were gone forever ...

Did you know CCSO’s Property & Evidence team takes in over a thousand articles of found property per year? Usually, these sleuths can track down the owners and let them know when we have their stuff.

But there are also times when the owners of lost property are out-of-state visitors. Back in August 2025, three passport cards (belonging to one family) were turned in along with currency left at a local Publix. The initial search for the owner didn’t produce any local addresses or phone numbers. Knowing that passport cards are important documents and replacing them can be a lengthy process, the team went above and beyond to locate the owners. Scanning records, with the help of a different department, we were able to locate a phone number to one of the passport card-holders. A quick text message got us in touch with the mom, who provided us with a shipping address to send her belongings to. Her passport cards and a check were on the way to her in Virginia the following day.

With so many items of found property coming through our doors, we do our best to find owners of items of value, important documentation, or items that could never be replaced.

Transparency builds trust. CCSO’s Redaction Unit ensures the public has access to digital records while protecting victims, children and families. While the work is largely unseen, it is essential to lawfully redact and release digital evidence in efforts to provide the public with records that support transparency and accountability while protecting sensitive personal information. Transparency and access to records assist families, attorneys and community members seeking information, closure and resolution.

The redaction of digital evidence is about sharing information responsibly. While their efforts may not be visible, the impact they make is significant.

Our Retail Theft Alliance works with local businesses to stop crimes before they happen. Lt. Brian Sawyer of our Crime Prevention unit is seen here at a recent meeting of loss prevention officers. These meetings help CCSO share vital information to help prevent theft, and they also allow the retailers to work together and share prevention strategies. This helps protect businesses and customers by keeping costs down.

Collier County’s parks and beaches are a huge draw, especially this time of year. With spring break coming soon, our deputies are patrolling our recreational spaces to keep them secure and provide vital safety information. Cpl. Robert Reed stays active on the beaches of North Naples meeting with residents and visitors to answer any questions.

 Sgt. Michael Sweely has spent 10 years working to protect the people of Immokalee. He knows that to respond to residents’ needs, he needs to understand the community. That’s why Sgt. Sweely meets once a month with the Immokalee Task Force, part of the Immokalee Eastern Area Chamber of Commerce. Listening to residents’ concerns helps shape patrol strategies and fosters shared responsibility.

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office serves a community that changes with the seasons. While Collier County’s year-round population is about 422,00, the peak winter tourist season brings an influx of roughly 100,000 more residents. Since COVID, beach visitation has surged and Collier has become a spring break destination, adding to already busy restaurants, shopping centers, parks, and nightlife. More people means more vehicles on the road, more activity and more calls for service. To meet the demand, deputies across the county deploy additional personnel and assets, staying ready for whatever comes their way and ensuring residents and visitors alike remain safe year-round. 

CCSO deputies don’t just respond to crime, they work to prevent it. They often conduct proactive patrols in parking lots, checking vehicle windows for unlocked doors, visible valuables or key fobs left inside, things that can quickly turn a car into an easy target for thieves.

If they spot a concern, deputies try to find the owner and have a quick chat about how those small oversights can create a crime of opportunity. They also hand out “Hide Lock Take” cards with simple tips to help prevent vehicle break-ins.

It’s all part of the unique approach to law enforcement at CCSO because the safest communities are built when law enforcement and residents look out for one another.

Special Events

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office is a familiar and reassuring presence at local  festivals, charity runs and community gatherings, helping to keep residents safe while building community connections. That commitment is especially evident during the annual Junior Deputy Fair Day. Set for March 21 this year, the Collier County Fair will shut down for four hours and open its gates to about 2,000 local fourth-graders who will get to enjoy the rides and games for free under the watchful supervision of CCSO deputies. It’s a longtime tradition that brings together students from more than 30 elementary schools from Naples to Immokalee, with deputies from across the agency volunteering as bus chaperones, food servers and supervisors to make sure the day is safe, fun and memorable for every Junior Deputy.  

CCSO serves our community through unique partnerships like our annual Shop with a Sheriff with the Jewish Federation of Greater Naples. Since 2015, the Federation’s generosity has helped deserving students shop with a CCSO deputy for holiday gifts for themselves or their families.

Youth Relations Sgt. Fritzler Bernagene, at left in photo, has taken part for several years and has seen firsthand how special the day can be. He recalled one young boy who spoke very little during their shopping trip but had a bike at the top of his list. When he got the bike, his smile said everything.

“Just to see him smile was phenomenal,” Sgt. Bernagene said.

Helping New Residents
From hurricane season to seasonal scams and from laws about texting while driving to alligators in neighborhood ponds, these are just some things newcomers to Florida don’t expect. The Collier County Sheriff’s Office works year-round to help new residents stay safe and informed. Deputies educate new residents by speaking at HOA and community meetings, visiting schools and youth programs, and sharing timely safety tips through social media and public events – giving them the knowledge they need to stay aware and prepared.

This is what community safety looks like: solving problems together by sharing responsibility and information. 

Sheriff Rambosk knows that tackling tough issues like fentanyl requires teamwork. That’s why the Collier County Sheriff’s Office issued a call to action, bringing community partners to the table to protect our residents. The result is Laced & Lethal, the most comprehensive safety initiative in Collier County history. 

On Sept. 7, 2023, Sheriff Rambosk stood alongside many of those partners at a downtown press conference to underscore a shared commitment to action. Those partners include Collier County Public Schools, Community Foundation of Collier County, Naples Children & Education Foundation, Greater Naples Area Chamber of Commerce, the Florida Department of Health Collier County, Naples Police Department, and Marco Island Police Department.

By working side by side with trusted community partners, CCSO  is helping spread lifesaving information and giving young people and their families the tools they need to make informed and safe choices.

At the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, giving back to the community is part of our culture.

Cpl. Clark Sargent has been donating blood for so many years he can’t remember when he started. For him, it’s simple:

“It’s just something I like to do because it helps other people.”

He’s one of many CCSO members who roll up their sleeves during our quarterly blood drives at the Collier County Emergency Services Center in East Naples. Coordinated since 2021 by Sgt. Allyn Tuff in partnership with NCH Community Blood Center, these drives are a quiet but powerful example of service beyond the badge.

During the most recent drive, 14 pints of blood were collected—each one with the potential to save multiple lives.

Paraphrasing Sheriff Rambosk’s core philosophy of service, Sgt. Tuff, also a longtime donor, puts it best:

“When it comes down to it, it’s about service to others before self.”

At CCSO, serving others doesn’t stop at responding to calls. It continues in the small, selfless acts that strengthen the community we are proud to protect.

Recently, while heading to Palmetto Elementary School, Youth Relations Cpl. Ronald Lussier heard a report of a self-inflicted gunshot wound just a few blocks away. He immediately responded.

When he arrived, he found a man inside a doorway of the home with a gunshot wound to his leg. The victim had tried to secure the injury with a belt as a makeshift tourniquet. Staying calm and focused, Cpl. Lussier quickly assessed the situation, applied a proper tourniquet high and tight on the leg, and used a QuickClot dressing to control the bleeding. Throughout the entire encounter, he kept the victim calm while gathering important information about what happened.

Cpl. Lussier’s quick thinking, medical skill, and composure under pressure helped provide critical care in a life-threatening situation. This week, Sheriff Rambosk honored  Cpl. Lussier with a Command Recognition for his actions.

Cpl. Anthony Tenuto met Ashley during her junior year at Lely High School. Like many teenagers, she was experiencing some challenges -- getting into arguments and her grades were slipping. Cpl. Tenuto took the opportunity during this challenging time to get to know Ashley. They discovered a shared connection--both were from Chicago—and that created an instant bond. From that moment, Ashley would often approach Cpl. Tenuto for a chat or simply walk by with a fist bump and a smile. Cpl. Tenuto continued to mentor Ashley throughout the school year, witnessing her improved attitude and behavior, her rising grades, and lack of negative referrals. She graduated with a big smile in 2023.

In this photo, Ashley is holding a certificate Cpl. Tenuto gave to her. After she received it, she hugged him and said, “Thank you for not giving up on me.”

Last week, the air was filled with excitement as Sgt. Dave Estes of our Agriculture Bureau rode into the CCSO’s Explorers meeting with his trusty horse, Samson. As Samson trotted into view, the young Explorers, ranging from 14 to 19 years old, gathered around with wide-eyed wonder.

Sgt. Estes, with a gentle tug on the reins, brought Samson to a halt, and the demo began. The kids enjoyed visiting with Samson and hearing about the work of the Ag Bureau. Their smiles showed a growing interest and excitement for the possibilities their future might hold.

The Explorers program is more than just a meeting; it’s a gateway to discovering the vast world of law enforcement careers. It allows these eager teens to delve into the roles and responsibilities within the agency, sparking dreams and ambitions of their own.

To learn more about the Explorer Program, check out: https://www.colliersheriff.org/my-ccso/operations-department/youth-relations-division/youth-programs

Volunteers like David Facchiano are vital to what we do. Last year Facchiano committed 529 volunteer hours to CCSO. Volunteers help the public with non-emergency tasks, freeing up our law enforcement officers to tackle crimes and emergencies. In 2025, CCSO volunteers worked 8,185 hours for our agency.

“It’s the opportunity to provide a resource that fills some voids and allows deputies to do what they do best,” Facchiano said. “When I can provide assistance to the public and get them through a not-so-pleasant situation, that’s very rewarding.”

A Safe Place to Live
When former New York City Police Commissioner William Bratton was looking for a place to retire, safety was top of mind. That led him to Collier County. We’re one of the safest communities in the country thanks in part to the work of Commissioner Bratton – CCSO’s Unified Policing model, which stresses real-time crime analysis and communication, is based off principles from the CompStat police management system Commissioner Bratton created in 1994.

In 2024, Sheriff Rambosk made Commissioner Bratton, now a part-time resident, an Honorary Sheriff for his continued support of law enforcement, and for creating the framework of modern-day policing.

This arrest in October 2025 shows why our partnership with our public safety partners, and our shared commitment to safety, are important.

Edwin Rafael Reyes, a convicted felon wanted in three jurisdictions, was tracked down thanks to the outstanding collaboration of multiple CCSO units and the Naples Police Department. Reyes was wanted by CCSO for aggravated battery following a road rage incident. When deputies saw Reyes’s car drive into the Naples Police Department’s jurisdiction, NPD initiated a traffic stop, but Reyes fled on foot.

CCSO’s Aviation Unit tracked Reyes from above, while CCSO deputies, our K9 Unit, and NPD officers pursued on foot. Reyes was apprehended on 13th Avenue South, arrested, and charged with six felonies and three misdemeanors.

In Florida, preparation saves lives. When storms approach, our deputies remain ready. That includes helping residents prepare. In 2022, with Hurricane Ian bearing down, CCSO deputies were stationed throughout the county helping people as they gathered supplies and ensuring calm at a hectic time.

When a storm approaches, our command staff constantly monitors the latest information. Emergency briefings ensure clear roles, shared information, and readiness when weather threatens the community. In our Real-Time Operations Center (ROC), CCSO coordinates with other public safety officials and even consults with meteorologists for the most current updates.

As hurricanes approach, when others are sheltering for safety, our deputies remain on duty throughout the storm. In September 2024, when Hurricane Helene threatened Southwest Florida, Sgt. Patrick Lawson was on the roads, monitoring conditions and providing real-time updates. Our deputies who stand watch provide valuable information to the public which helps keep them secure.

As flames from a fast-moving brush fire crept toward backyards in Wilshire Lakes on March 26, 2025, deputies went door to door, urging residents to evacuate. While many residents quickly heeded deputies’ warnings, some chose to stay behind.

“We can’t force them to leave,” Sgt. Tomlinson said. “But we make sure they understand the risk.’

When Wilshire Lakes was cleared, Sgt. Tomlinson and other deputies immediately moved into a neighboring community as the fire continued to threaten homes there.

During brush fires, evacuations are often a split-second decision. Deputies on scene assess conditions and act immediately to protect lives.

“If it’s time, we start knocking on doors,” Sgt. Tomlinson said.

Thanks to a coordinated response with firefighters and the CCSO Aviation Bureau, which dropped 12,100 gallons of water from their helicopter Bambi Bucket _ and the community’s cooperation _  no homes were damaged and no one was injured.

A few weeks later, deputies returned to Wilshire Lakes under very different circumstances. Grateful residents lined the streets cheering, clapping and holding thank-you signs as they hosted a parade and lunch to show appreciation for the first responders who helped save their homes.

A sea of purple T-shirts filled the room March 3 as Sheriff Kevin Rambosk stepped up to the podium. The audience of about 70 men had gathered with a shared mission: to take a stand against domestic violence.

After hearing from Sheriff Rambosk, the group, known as Gentle’men Against Domestic Violence, fanned out across Collier County, hanging door materials and spreading awareness about the lifesaving services offered by The Shelter for Abused Women & Children.

The outreach reflects a longstanding partnership between The Shelter and the Collier County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies and shelter advocates work together daily to stop perpetrators of domestic violence and ensure that victims receive the services they need in order to heal. Sheriff Rambosk has long championed a coordinated community response to end domestic violence and he proudly serves on The Shelter’s board of directors.

In the days following Hurricane Irma in 2017, the CCSO Media Relations Bureau worked closely with the agency’s Drone Unit and Aviation Bureau to share overhead video of storm damage on social media. This footage helped residents, seasonal visitors and business owners clearly understand the extent of the damage across Collier County.

Irma marked the first major local disaster in which drones were deployed. They could be launched far more quickly than helicopters, providing rapid, wide-area assessments and helping deputies identify which roads were impassable and which could be reopened.

Drones were also used to monitor FEMA supply distribution and restoration efforts as well as traffic at local gas stations during the rush for fuel. In one striking mission, drone video captured CCSO deputies using airboats to transport eight linemen deep into the Everglades to reach  remote utility poles that provide power to the communities of Copeland and Jerome. 

Nearly a decade later, drone and aviation footage remain essential tools for informing and educating the public after major events like hurricanes. And they’ve become something our community has come to expect from us.

Every hurricane-prone jurisdiction prepares for storms. But at the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, a unique partnership with an agency 600 miles away is ensuring that 911 calls won’t go unanswered regardless of the weather.

CCSO and Charleston County in South Carolina have forged a partnership that allows each to serve as the other’s back-up in the event that their own 911 system fails during a hurricane or other disaster.

Many agencies have these types of partnerships with counterparts within their own region, but thanks to advancements in technology, the arrangement between CCSO brings a distinct advantage: If a storm strikes one, it is hundreds of miles from the other.

It’s one of the first such relationships in the nation.

“It’s just one more way we are ensuring the safety of our community,” said Sheriff Kevin Rambosk.

Sometimes we help put out the small fires too. Because, in dry season small fires can become big fires very, very quickly. And often, we’re the first to arrive.

Late last month, Cpl. Dominic Rodi was dispatched to an address off Green Boulevard for a brush fire. When he arrived at the scene, Cpl. Rodi headed to the back of the building where smoke and flames were visible, coming from the wooded area behind it.

He used his agency-issued fire extinguisher to prevent the fire from spreading further into the woods. Soon after, firefighters from Greater Naples Fire Rescue District arrived and began to extinguish the blaze.

The owner of the building said as soon as he saw the fire, he called 911 and attempted to douse the flames with a water hose, but his efforts were unsuccessful.

On April 10, 2025 a man intentionally crashed his car into the St. Matthew’s House Thrift Store on Airport Pulling Road in Naples. The suspect tried to run from the scene, leaving chaos behind. Several people were injured, and there was so much damage, the store remained closed for months.

The swift coordination between CCSO and local first responders was crucial that day, as they efficiently managed the complex situation. The incident involved fairly large-scale destruction and two kinds of investigations: the traffic (vehicle) aspect and the suspect’s criminal intention. Agencies working together ensured the suspect was quickly apprehended while the injured victims were tended to with care and precision.

On Jan. 13, 2026, a call comes into 911 about a man with a severe cut to his hand. That man was quickly whisked away in a truck by coworkers trying to get him help. On the way, they ran into Cpl. Clark Sargent, who was wrapping up a crash investigation. When the truck pulled up, the passenger -- a local chef -- alerted Cpl. Sargent to the deep cut and that he was bleeding heavily.

Cpl. Sargent immediately removed him from the truck, sat him in the median and began lifesaving care. He applied a tourniquet to control the bleeding, then packed the wound and maintained steady pressure. Throughout the incident, he kept the chef calm and reassured him that he was going to be OK until EMS arrived.

Doctors later shared that without the quick application of the tourniquet and proper wound care, the outcome could have been very different.

Sheriff Rambosk honored Cpl. Sargent recently with the agency’s Lifesaving Award.

Checking on the Vulnerable 
In the late evening of January 9, CCSO was contacted by a man outside the area requesting a welfare check on his elderly mother in the Victoria Park neighborhood. In minutes, deputies, including a training officer and a trainee, arrived on the scene. They knocked on both the front and back doors but received no response, aside from a dog barking inside. Undeterred, they proceeded to knock on a bedroom window and heard a faint voice asking for help.

The deputies gained entry and discovered that the woman had fallen and was unable to get up since the previous night. Deputies immediately called for EMS. Once the medics arrived, they took over care for the woman. Meanwhile, deputies made sure the home was safe and secure throughout. They also fed the dog, cleaned his bowl, and took him to a caring neighbor's home. His owner was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

CCSO’s Media Relations Bureau, in coordination with the command staff, prepares and executes timely updates on major issues and incidents. This is especially important in the case of storms, missing persons cases and when there might be a rare and immediate threat to the public.

Timely updates help residents make informed decisions and reduce uncertainty. The best place to check for issues of public safety involving the Sheriff’s Office is our Facebook Page.

This photo from a brief press conference was taken in October 2023. That’s when CCSO led the search for missing Margaret Gallaway, an elderly endangered woman who was found several days later in a neighbor’s garage thanks to the persistent efforts of deputies and technology.

Halloween Threat Averted
Back in October in Victoria Park, an ordinary Halloween took a dramatic turn when a vigilant teenager reported a chilling social media post. The post revealed a plan to unleash a homemade explosive device during the neighborhood’s trick-or-treating. The quick response of CCSO members highlighted the agency’s preparedness for such rare but potentially devastating situations. Detectives and deputies acted swiftly, arresting a local 15-year-old student at his home. That’s where they found materials for constructing the explosive device. The rapid mobilization of the CCSO Bomb Squad, alongside the FBI, ensured that the threat was neutralized before any harm could occur.

The CCSO Bomb Squad members, trained for handling rare and dangerous incidents, demonstrated their expertise in safely securing and removing the explosive materials. Using advanced technology and thorough threat analysis programs, they meticulously collected evidence, moving the large device into a containment vessel and securing additional hazardous materials from the garage. This operation underscored the importance of their rigorous training and readiness for uncommon threats. Praise was also directed toward the teenager who reported the post, whose decisive actions, combined with the skilled work of deputies, prevented a potential tragedy, allowing Halloween festivities to continue safely.

Calm Leadership 
Composure is key in an emergency. When lives are on the line, our deputies stay calm and level-headed because of their preparation. Sheriff Rambosk ensures that deputies are trained for any emergency, no matter how large, by conducting full-scale Active Shooter Hostile Event Response training exercises like this one at Golden Gate High School.

The Collier County Sheriff’s Office never rests. Our deputies protect our community 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. While extended shifts can test endurance, our shared commitment to service keeps deputies focused. For an inside look at what it’s like to work a 12-hour overnight shift as a patrol deputy, listen to this episode of CCSO’s podcast Sworn Statement. We rode along with Patrol from dusk to dawn to learn what happens in Collier County when most people are asleep.

LINK: soundcloud.com/swornstatement/nightshift-with-ccso

 Neighbors looking after each other and keeping one another safe helps deputies do their jobs. That’s what happened in May 2021 when a man became trapped under a lawnmower in a lake in a North Naples neighborhood. Residents immediately called 911 then jumped into the water to help. Cpl. Pierre Jean arrived on scene and helped the Good Samaritans overturn the lawnmower and pull the man to shore. Cpl. David Donzanti and Detective James Kelinheinz then joined Cpl. Jean in performing CPR. The man survived, and the three CCSO deputies received American Red Cross Lifesaving Awards for their efforts.

The goal of training isn’t just to practice — it’s to improve.

After every major training exercise and every hurricane response, our teams conduct detailed after-action reviews. We look closely at what worked, what didn’t, and how we can do it better next time.

That commitment to learning and refining our response is what keeps our community safer.

In this photo, Captain Jamie Cunningham is conducting an after-action session following an active shooter training exercise that brought together first responders from across Collier County. By working side by side and constantly evaluating our performance, we make sure we’re ready for whatever comes next.

Behind the scenes in the CCSO Real-Time Operations Center, analysts are working every day to help deputies in the field make faster and smarter decisions. Using technology, cameras and data they gather critical information in real time that can help locate suspects or pinpoint the location of someone who needs help.

Their work may not always be visible to the public, but it plays a vital role in crime fighting and lifesaving efforts. When a distressed teenager attempted to jump from a freeway overpass into rush-hour traffic in Golden Gate last year, ROC analysts played a crucial role in identifying and communicating her location to responding deputies, allowing them to quickly find the teen and bring her to safety.       

It’s just one example of how the dedicated professionals working behind the scenes at CCSO help make successful outcomes possible every day.  

Ready Year-round
In Collier County, every season brings its own challenges and our deputies are always ready to meet them

Brushfire season can threaten homes and neighborhoods. Hurricane season demands preparation and quick response. Winter brings an influx of visitors, heavier traffic and even scammers. And summer means bustling beaches and busy waterways.

No matter the season, the mission stays the same: Keeping our community safe every day of the year.  

Acknowledging 100 Stories
Today marks story #100 in our Celebrating America – 250 stories of Service series.

Behind every badge, radio call, investigation, and rescue is someone who chose a life of service. Some of these stories have been heroic rescues. Others have highlighted quiet moments of compassion that never make news.

Together, these stories paint a picture of what service really looks like in Collier County.

And we still have 150 more stories to share.

Here at CCSO, K9 teams serve as a significant asset in both combating crime and fostering community engagement. These highly trained dogs and their handlers help locate suspects, track missing people and detect narcotics, all while serving as some of the agency’s most visible and popular ambassadors at community events.

The job comes with unique challenges. K9 teams are on call 24 hours a day. Handlers have to stay in top physical condition because when their partner takes off after a suspect, they have to keep up. That can mean running through woods; thick, swampy brush and uneven terrain during searches and pursuits. It’s demanding work that requires trust, teamwork and a strong bond between deputy and dog.

This body-worn-camera video from a Sept. 29, 2023 search for a suspect in Golden Gate gives an up-close look at the challenges and physical demands CCSO K9 teams face every day as they work to combat crime and protect the people of Collier County. Click here to watch the video

Rescue on Rough Seas
A sailboat carrying four people caught fire and began sinking off the coast of Marco Island on the morning of April 9, 2025. Navigating strong winds and rough waters, CCSO Marine Bureau deputies quickly located the vessel near Cape Romano, fully engulfed in flames and thick black smoke billowing into the sky. The four passengers had made it safely onto a dinghy. Deputies brought them aboard and transported them to the Goodland Boat Ramp, where paramedics were waiting.

Incidents like this highlight the critical role our Marine Bureau plays in keeping residents and visitors safe on the water. Deputies patrol more than 80 nautical miles in and around Collier County, using patrol boats and airboats to navigate diverse waterways. They also work in conjunction with other law enforcement agencies, fire departments and the U.S. Coast Guard as the Marine Emergency Response Team to respond to boating accidents, disabled vessels, swimmers in distress, missing vessels, and other boating incidents both in the Gulf and the hundreds of miles of inter-coastal waterways.

From coastal security and search and rescue to marine mammal protection, our Marine Bureau is always ready to respond when it matters most. Click here to watch the video.

The Evolution of Bike Safety Enforcement
Only a few years ago when it came to bicycle safety, deputies focused on the basics such as wearing a helmet and riding in the same direction as traffic. Those fundamentals still matter today but deputies have had to shift gears as e-bikes have grown in popularity, bringing new challenges and serious safety concerns.

Sheriff Rambosk and the Collier County Sheriff’s Office want parents and kids to be informed. Deputies are actively engaging the community, handing out fliers, attending HOA meetings, visiting schools and more to share important information about e-bike safety, how to ride responsibly and theft awareness. Sheriff Rambosk also makes it a point to address e-bike safety whenever he speaks to community groups, reinforcing education, responsibility and awareness as  the trend continues to grow.

SWAT Readiness
A law enforcement SWAT team devotes hundreds of hours to training for every hour they are deployed. But it’s that relentless preparation and precision that makes them effective when the moment comes.

The training is intense and it’s frequent, and it simulates chaotic, real-world scenarios. Our SWAT members train together, they compete in regional and statewide competitions and they participate in regional training opportunities like a large-scale training that took place at JetBlue Park in Fort Myers. That training session included 320 first responders representing 46 agencies across the region.

Thanks to their training, professionalism and dedication, our SWAT team members are prepared to respond to any critical incident that arises. Click here to watch the video.

Community Education by Specialized Units
CCSO’s specialized units host demonstrations across the county throughout the year teaching residents about safety, prevention, and preparedness. Their demonstrations are not only informative, but they can also be especially inspiring. That’s the case for demos given by members of our Bomb Squad to our "You Can Do It All!" program. Our skilled team includes Cpl. Dorin Elias (seen here) who engages the girls on how she and the Squad safely handle explosive situations.

The goal of You Can Do It All! is to empower incoming sixth-grade girls through confidence-building activities and practical skills.

Innovation in Crime Prevention
The Collier County Sheriff’s Office Crime Prevention Unit, in collaboration with the Real-Time Operations Center and Patrol, launched a Construction Site Watch Program in 2022. Unlike traditional extra patrols of construction sites, this innovative program specifically targets delivered products that may attract thieves.

Companies inform the Sheriff’s Office ROC when items will be on-site and at risk, providing details such as:

• Location
• Time
• Type of product
• Pictures

During critical times, Patrol, COPS, and Crime Prevention teams can conduct extra patrols to safeguard these assets. This initiative was honored as the Outstanding Crime Prevention Program in 2022 at the Florida Crime Prevention Association Conference. Click here to watch the video.

United to Save a Life
Teamwork in action.

The opening moments of this video show one of our deputies running toward a man in medical distress along I-75 on February 5. Just moments earlier, a Florida Highway Patrol trooper discovered the driver pulled over on the shoulder of the highway, unconscious and unresponsive, and immediately began CPR.

As deputies arrived, they jumped in without hesitation, rotating through CPR alongside the trooper and working together to keep the man alive until additional medical help arrived.

Because of their teamwork, training, and willingness to act without hesitation, that man survived.

Every shift brings the unexpected. Whether it’s protecting our community or saving a life on the side of the highway, our deputies stand ready to respond … together.
Click here to watch the video.

Support From The Sky
When aerial support is needed quickly, CCSO has a fleet of drones that can rapidly respond when it might be unpractical or unsafe to use a helicopter or a deputy. Our drone unit enhances situational awareness, search and rescue, and emergency response capabilities. All of our drone pilots are FAA certified and train on a regular basis. Check out this video for an inside look at that training.
Click here to watch the video.

Special Events Planning
Collaboration and communication are essential when special events arise. When Vice President JD Vance visited Naples on Jan. 28, CCSO participated in a coordinated effort with our public safety partners from the Naples Police Department, Florida Highway Patrol and others. Our deputies helped get the Vice President off Air Force Two at Naples Airport to his destination and back safely and securely, while minimizing disruptions on city and county streets.

Positive Behavioral Support
Cpl. Caudill is often seen bringing smiles to children’s faces at Immokalee Middle School. However, her role as Youth Relations Deputy goes far deeper. Cpl. Caudill and Immokalee Middle School utilize the Positive Behavioral Interventions and Support program which aims to reward students for meeting behavior expectations.

Students recently celebrated these achievements with a bounce house, Kona Ice, a water sprinkler and, of course, Cpl. Caudill right there with them. Great work by all the students!

Evidence Technicians in Action
It takes a lot of work – and a lot of skill – to catalogue the evidence CCSO receives for its investigations. Right now our Property and Evidence technicians have 340,264 items in their care. That includes 62,439 items of narcotics and paraphernalia, 5,242 firearms and ammunition, 1,736 items of currency, 577 pieces of jewelry, 183 bicycles and 48 vehicles. In 2025, we took in an average of 1,529 pieces of evidence per month and averaged 39 appointments per month with citizens claiming property.

A Legacy of Compassion
Before his recent retirement, CCSO volunteer Ken Robins spent two decades helping the citizens of Collier County. Ken generously gave his time and energy in a variety of roles, including serving as a community patrol volunteer in North Naples and supporting those in need as part of the Victim Advocacy Unit.

“Ken is leaving behind a legacy of compassion, commitment, and community spirit,” Community Affairs Sgt. Natalie Ashby said. “His steady presence, willingness to help others, and genuine care for the community made a lasting impact on both colleagues and residents alike. Ken’s contributions have not only strengthened the agency but also touched countless lives. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of working alongside him, and we wish him a well-deserved and fulfilling retirement.”

Learning from the Past
History offers lessons that help guide modern policing. In 2023, CCSO celebrated its 100th anniversary. We kicked off a year of celebrations with a ceremony in Everglades City, the first county seat, by recognizing the relatives of our first Sheriff, W.R. Maynard. Check out the Centennial page on our website for historical photos from our first century of safety and service: colliersheriff.org/my-ccso/about-us/centennial

A Profession of Responsibility 
Being a deputy isn’t something you turn on and off. It’s a responsibility you carry in every interaction.

A community member recently recognized Sgt. DiPaolo after he responded to a citizen request for service. It was a simple request. Nothing that would stand out. But as Sgt. DiPaolo shared, he’s guided by a core CCSO principal: “No call for service is too small.” 

During the interaction, he was courteous, approachable and professional. He took the time to engage in conversation, listen and connect. His calm demeanor and respectful attitude made the moment comfortable and memorable.

“Encounters like this remind residents that there are dedicated individuals working every day to support and protect the community,” the citizen wrote, commending Sgt. DiPaolo.

Sgt. DiPaolo’s actions are a reminder that professionalism and kindness matter, no matter how great or small the moment.

If you have a deputy you would like to commend, visit: https://www.colliersheriff.org/how-do-i/commend-or-complain-about-a-deputy

Quiet Courage

Courage in law enforcement isn’t always loud or dramatic like it’s portrayed on TV or in the movies. Often, it’s quiet and shown in the steady everyday actions of our Traffic and Warrants deputies. Because there’s no such thing as a “routine” traffic stop or warrant, they face the unknown every time they approach a stopped vehicle or a closed door. And with every traffic stop they make and every warrant they serve, they demonstrate a calm and consistent courage that keeps our community safe.

Remembering Local History
A lot has changed since 1923, when the Collier County Sheriff’s Office began as the South West Mounted Police.

The uniforms have evolved.
The technology has advanced.
The patrol vehicles look different.
But some things haven’t changed.
A commitment to law and order.
A dedication to serving the community.
A responsibility we carry forward every day.
Nearly a century later, those principles are still at the core of who we are.

A New Life Saved

On Friday, January 9, deputies responded to a medical emergency at a 7-Eleven on Immokalee Road after reports that a woman had given birth in the parking lot inside a vehicle. Callers reported the newborn was not crying and it was unknown if the baby was breathing.

When deputies arrived, they were immediately flagged down and directed to the vehicle. Inside, a mother had just delivered a premature infant who was still attached to the umbilical cord. A concerned good Samaritan who had stopped to help handed the tiny newborn to the responding deputy.

Realizing the infant was unresponsive, deputies quickly sprang into action. After attempting to stimulate the baby without success, deputies began life-saving measures, with Sgt. Kitchenhoff performing chest compressions while Sgt. Maholtz carefully held the premature newborn.

Shortly after, Fire and EMS arrived and took over care of both the mother and child. Thanks to the quick actions of deputies and the assistance of the good Samaritan on scene, the infant began showing signs of life.

This incident is a powerful reminder of how community members and first responders working together can make a life-saving difference.

Behind every badge at the Collier County Sheriff’s Office is a commitment to service. In this photo, you’ll see just a few of the many roles that work together to keep our community safe: a Community Service Deputy, Crime Scene personnel, a Corrections Officer, Patrol Deputies, a dedicated Volunteer, and a Pilot.

Each uniform represents a unique responsibility and a different day-to-day mission. Some respond to emergencies on the road. Some work behind the scenes gathering critical evidence. Some maintain safety within our correctional facilities. Others volunteer their time, assist the community, or take to the skies in support of operations.

While their duties may look different, they are united by the same purpose: to preserve and protect the lives, property, and constitutional guarantees of all residents and visitors while keeping Collier County a safe place to live.

And no matter the uniform, the philosophy remains the same:

Service to others before self.

Quick Action at Overnight House Fire
In the early morning hours of March 22, CCSO deputies responded to a report of a residential fire on 6th Ave NE.

Deputy Ward was the first to arrive on scene and immediately evacuated the home before conducting a quick sweep of the property to ensure no one remained inside. The fire was located on the patio.

Deputies Ward, Biro, and Mackert worked together to secure the area, ensure the safety of the three residents, and notify nearby neighbors while awaiting the arrival of fire and EMS crews.

Firefighters quickly extinguished the flames. The homeowner later advised the fire may have started from a space heater placed on the patio to keep outdoor cats warm. The fire was investigated and determined to be not suspicious.

The American Red Cross was notified to assist the family.

Thanks to the deputies’ quick response and coordination with fire personnel, everyone was safely evacuated and no injuries were reported.

Honoring Through Action
Every name remembered at our annual Law Enforcement Memorial Service represents a life dedicated to protecting others.

Their sacrifice is a powerful reminder that the freedoms and safety we work to protect often come at a tremendous cost.

We honor them not only with remembrance, but by serving our community with the same courage and commitment they lived by.

A Quiet Moment of Kindness
Sometimes service happens far from flashing lights or emergency calls.*

Cpl. Sebastian Acosta of CCSO’s Bailiff Bureau recently noticed a couple in need as they were leaving Family Court.

The woman was able to walk short distances and drive, but she was struggling to safely help her husband—who had recently been hospitalized—into their car.

Seeing the situation, Cpl. Acosta stepped in.

He patiently helped the husband into the vehicle, assisted the woman into the driver’s seat and carefully loaded their chairs into the back of their Prius so they could get home safely.

It was a simple act of kindness, but moments like these reflect the heart of service that deputies bring to our community every day.

Paws on Patrol
The Collier County Sheriff’s Office created the Paws on Patrol program to engage the community to be alert for crime. Criminals typically look for the police when committing burglaries and thefts. They are less likely to pay attention to normal citizens. Realizing that people walk their dogs and pets at all hours, the Paws on Patrol program encourages pet owners to look for suspicious people, vehicles and activity. Keep your cell phone with you and know the non-emergency number, in addition to 911, number for the Sheriff’s Office or your local police. This program has proven fruitful to deter criminals. The motto of the program is, “Your dog’s time can solve a crime.”

Policies That Protect
Policies maintain consistency, fairness and professionalism. Sheriff Rambosk ensures those policies are held to the highest standards by seeking outside accreditation.

CCSO has earned and maintains accreditation from a number of organizations. We have been nationally accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA) for 31 consecutive years. Last year we received our 10th Advanced Law Enforcement Accreditation Award from CALEA, the gold standard in public safety. 

We are also accredited by: 

• The Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation
• Florida Corrections Accreditation Commission, Inc.
• National Commission on Correctional Health Care
• National Public Safety Communications Accreditation
• International Academy of Emergency Medical Dispatch

Training for Excellence 
Ongoing training keeps deputies prepared to serve safely, effectively, and lawfully. Our specialized units often come together for large-scale training to make sure they’re ready for any situation. Recently, our Emergency Response Team paired with our Marine Unit to rehearse search and rescue missions on the water. ERT members were trained in safely maneuvering vessels, approaching other vessels on the water. Often dubbed the Swiss Army knives of law enforcement, ERT members must be trained to respond to any emergency, whether it’s on land or on the water.

Leadership by Example
Sheriff Rambosk sets the tone for professionalism at CCSO through his own conduct. The Sheriff doesn’t ask anything of his deputies that he hasn’t done himself during his 44-year law enforcement career. Here Sheriff Rambosk and our undersheriff, Col. Jim Bloom, take part in a training session to become re-certified in CPR, just as all our certified deputies must do.

The Mentors Behind the Badge
Deputies rely on each other for feedback, guidance, and shared learning. That’s especially the case when it comes to field training officers.

At CCSO, Field Training Officers (FTOs) play a crucial role in shaping the future of law enforcement. These dedicated professionals mentor, guide, and evaluate new deputies, ensuring they embody the standards and values of the CCSO. FTOs like Justin Allen offer on-the-job training, transforming recruits into skilled Road Patrol Deputies by emphasizing leadership, calm decision-making, and operational proficiency.

On the day picture here, FTO Justin Allen worked alongside Deputy Trainee Christina Ovale, who is nearing the end of her training. Together, they tackled a variety of calls, from a battery case to a medical emergency and even a suspiciously dumped travel trailer.

FTOs are not just trainers; they are leaders who instill agency values, provide performance evaluations, and offer professional mentorship. They ensure our new deputies are ready to provide safe and efficient service to our community.

Transparency Builds Trust
Open communication and transparency strengthen relationships with residents. Our Central Records Bureau ensures that CCSO follows all open records laws and provides vital information to the public. Central Records is responsible for maintaining, organizing, and providing access to official documents. The bureau prioritizes open communication, ensuring the public receives clear information and timely assistance. By being transparent, responsive, and supportive, we work to build strong, trusting relationships with the community we serve.

Calm, Focused and Professional Communication
When seconds matter, the way we communicate matters just as much.

In this call, CCSO Senior Dispatcher Lisa Martin speaks with a mother whose 1-year-old had just fallen off a bed and was drifting in and out of consciousness. While the caller is understandably frantic, Senior Dispatcher Wilson remains calm, focused and reassuring – providing clear instructions every step of the way.

Professional communication isn’t just about what is said, it’s about the way it’s said – steady, confident and centered on helping others when they need it most.

A Teachable Moment
Every decision carries ethical considerations. Acting with integrity is non-negotiable.

Our deputies respond to calls of service with compassion, integrity and a desire to exceed expectations.

When Cpl. Kyle Palmisano responded to a call about a minor golf cart crash in Orange Blossom Ranch, he spent time talking to the at-fault teen driver about learning from the experience, driving more safely and the potential consequences he could encounter if he causes a more serious crash in the future. The teen’s father took the time to submit an email to us commending Cpl. Palmisano for turning the call for service into a teachable moment.

“This is a great officer that really cares about the community and I am proud to see such a great individual work to protect our community. Thank you, Cpl. Palmisano! We are safer for individuals like you! Be safe!”

Partners in Service, Family for Life
Commitment doesn’t end when the shift does.

For K9 handlers and their partners, the bond built on duty, trust and countless hours of training lasts far beyond a career in service. When these hardworking dogs hang up their vests they don’t just retire, they come home.

At CCSO, four retired K9s are currently enjoying their well-earned retirement with their handlers and counterparts. After years of protecting our community, they get to spend their days doing what they love most: being part of the family.

This photo shows K9 Dracula during his working days with Cpl. Chris Rowley, and now enjoying life after retirement. According to Cpl. Rowley, Dracula is nearing 10 years old and has settled comfortably into family life. He quickly became part of the household and now shares it with two canine brothers—Ranger, a black lab, and Yogi, a border collie. True to his working roots, Dracula still takes his job seriously, especially when it comes to watching over his human brother and sister.

Service may end, but loyalty never does.