LCSO, County Expand Public Safety with New Forestry Patrol Deputy in West Leon County

Today, the Leon County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) and Leon County Government introduced a newly activated Forestry Patrol Deputy, further strengthening public safety and expanding law enforcement coverage in western Leon County including the Apalachicola National Forest.

“Leon County is proud to support the Leon County Sheriff’s Office in the continuous efforts to make our entire community safe,” said Leon County Commission Chair Carolyn D. Cummings.

This newly activated Forestry Patrol Deputy will provide dedicated law enforcement coverage across the region, including the expansive Apalachicola National Forest.

“This new patrol position reflects our commitment to ensuring all residents—especially those in rural areas—receive the law enforcement presence they deserve,” said Leon County District 2 Commissioner Christian Caban. “This new position is crucial for the rural residents and it shows how civically minded citizens can affect real change in their communities. I'm very proud of how the County, the Sheriff's Office, US Forestry, and FWC collaborated to get this done.”

This initiative, incorporated into the County’s Fiscal Year 2025 Budget, demonstrates the ongoing commitment of the Leon County Sheriff’s Office and Leon County Government to public safety, ensuring faster response times and increased law enforcement presence across remote and recreational areas.

“The County is committed to supporting initiatives and efforts that keep our community safe,” said Leon County Administrator Vincent S. Long. “Our continued partnership with the Sheriff’s Office highlights the importance of a coordinated approach to public safety that benefits everyone.”

Covering more than 574,000 acres, the Apalachicola National Forest attracts thousands of residents and visitors and is known for its recreational offerings, such as hiking, off-road riding, and hunting. With the vast landscapes in western Leon County and the Apalachicola National Forest, dedicated law enforcement is essential for safeguarding both the community and natural resources.

“Having a dedicated deputy improves law enforcement coverage in remote areas, allowing us to better serve and protect the community,” said Sheriff Walt McNeil of the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. “With the Apalachicola National Forest drawing visitors from across Florida and beyond, this focused presence ensures we can address public safety challenges effectively in these rural areas.”

For more information, contact Shonda Knight, Leon County Sheriff’s Office, at (850) 606-3270 / KnightS@LeonCountyFL.gov, or Mathieu Cavell, Leon County Community and Media Relations, at (850) 606-5300 / CMR@LeonCountyFL.gov.

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