“DCSO’s Summer Recap: Strengthening Community Ties”
Message From Sheriff Potter
As we transition to the routines of fall, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the impactful work we at the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office has done over the past few months. This summer, we’ve strengthened our connections with the community through various outreach efforts, ensured preparedness for hurricane season, provided educational opportunities for our youth, and enhanced the training of our law enforcement deputies.
Community Outreach and Events
We kicked off the summer with a bang through our Summer Kick Off Kickball Tournament. This event was a wonderful opportunity for community members of all ages to come together, enjoy friendly competition, and build camaraderie with our deputies. Our community-focused efforts continued with several other events, including the BBQ Block Party held in early August. This event brought together residents and local organizations for a day of food, fun, and fellowship right outside our Sheriff’s Office. We also partnered with the DeSoto County Library for the Cool Down with Crafts event, where children and families could escape the heat while engaging in creative activities. Another highlight was our collaboration with the Louis and Gloria Flanzer Boys and Girls Club for days of lunch and games, providing a safe and fun environment for our youth.
Hurricane Season Preparedness
Understanding the importance of hurricane preparedness, we participated in the 2024 Hurricane Expo organized by DeSoto County Emergency Management. This event was crucial in providing our residents with the resources and knowledge they need to stay safe during hurricane season. Sheriff Potter and our staff were on hand to speak face-to-face with community members, answer questions, and distribute valuable information on emergency preparedness.
Harmony in the Streets Summer Camp
We were thrilled to host our first-ever Harmony in the Streets Summer Camp, in collaboration with the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranch Association. This camp was an incredible success, with 60 of our young residents participating in a week-long program filled with fun activities, teamwork, and learning opportunities. The camp focused on building character, leadership skills, and fostering positive relationships between our youth and law enforcement. It was a joy to see the smiles on the faces of the campers and to witness the bonds formed between them and our deputies.
Advanced Training for Law Enforcement
The safety of our community is always at the forefront of our mission. This summer, our law enforcement deputies participated in Cadre Consulting Group’s Active Assailant Command Training held at Memorial Elementary School. This training, conducted in collaboration with the Arcadia Police Department and DeSoto County Fire/EMS, provided our first responders with hands-on experience in responding to active threats. The comprehensive training included tactical response exercises and working closely with immediate medical rescue teams on the scene. This type of advanced training is vital for equipping our deputies with the skills and knowledge necessary to manage emergencies and save lives.
Preparing for the New School Year
As the summer ended, one of our main priorities was ensuring our students were prepared to safely head back to school. We organized a Back-to-School Drive Thru event, where families could pick up essential school supplies, meet some of our deputies, and receive tips on safety for the new school year. It was heartwarming to see the community come together to support our students as they embark on another academic year.
This summer has been a busy and rewarding time for our law enforcement agency. From engaging with our community through fun events to enhancing our emergency preparedness and response capabilities, we remain committed to serving and protecting the residents of DeSoto County.
Be Kind, Be Safe, God Bless.
Sheriff Jim Potter
