COMMAND STAFF
Sheriff Chris Nocco
Sheriff
Undersheriff of Law Enforcement Operations
Colonel Tait Sanborn
Colonel Tait Sanborn is the Undersheriff of Law Enforcement Operations for the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. Colonel Sanborn began working at the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in December of 2003. He joined the Florida National Guard in 2002 as a Military Policeman and attended the Hillsborough Community College Law Enforcement Academy. He served as a Patrol Deputy, Community Policing Deputy, Patrol Corporal, Street Crimes Unit Corporal, Training Corporal, Patrol Sergeant, Property Crimes Sergeant, Patrol Lieutenant, and Special Operations Lieutenant before being appointed to Special Operations Captain. He was transferred back to Field Operations to be the District II Captain in October of 2017 and was appointed as the Field Operations Bureau Commander in August 2019 where he oversaw all three Patrol Divisions. Colonel Sanborn was promoted to Undersheriff in April 2024. During his career he also served on the Pasco Unified SWAT Team beginning in 2007, holding positions of SWAT sniper and Team Commander before leaving the Team.
Colonel Sanborn deployed to Afghanistan with the Florida National Guard from 2010 to 2011. He separated from the National Guard in 2015 to further focus on his career at the Sheriff’s Office. Colonel Sanborn holds a B.A. in Criminal Justice and an M.A. in Criminal Justice with a focus on Critical Incident Management, both from Saint Leo University.
Undersheriff of Administrative Operations and General Counsel
Chief Lindsay Moore
Chief Lindsay Moore is the Undersheriff of Administrative Operations and General Counsel/Constitutional Policing Advisor for the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. The Administrative Operations branch includes Legal Affairs, Professional Standards, Human Resources, Budget and Strategic Planning, Finance, Public Records, Report Management, Civil Process, Accreditation, and the Operational Logistics Bureau, which is comprised of the Information Technology, Fleet, Purchasing, and Construction units.
Chief Moore’s primary duties include providing administrative guidance and oversight of the agency’s attorneys and legal matters; employment and personnel matters; budget and financial operations; public records requests; compliance with records retention and destruction regulations; and policy updates in accordance with legal and accreditation standards. In her role as Constitutional Policing Advisor, she chairs the Community Advisory Committee, which is a diverse team representative of Pasco County’s citizens who bring a variety of perspectives and points of view within the community regardless of race, age, gender, religion, identity, and experience. The Committee’s purpose is to build a culture of support between the community and law enforcement, promote public safety and community trust, build a stronger partnership between deputies and the community, and provide a line of communication to the Pasco Sheriff’s Office on important community issues. Chief Moore also provides guidance and legal expertise to the Sheriff and agency staff; reviews agency policies and procedures to assure compliance with constitutional, federal and state law; reviews contracts and public records requests; and responds to critical incidents which involve high liability issues.
Prior to joining the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in 2011, Chief Moore practiced with a civil litigation law firm specializing in wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases. She is also a former Assistant State Attorney for the First Judicial Circuit, where she held positions as a Special Prosecutor in the Crimes Against Children Unit; the Domestic Violence Unit; and the Felony Division where she handled all levels of felony cases. She received her Bachelor’s degree with honors in Criminology from the University of Florida, and her Juris Doctor degree from Florida Coastal School of Law. Chief Moore is a 2017 graduate of the State of Florida’s Certified Public Manager program at Florida State University, and is a graduate of the 2014 Leadership Pasco class. She is admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court, the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida, and also holds certifications as a Florida Certified Labor Relations Professional through the Florida Public Employer Labor Relations Association (FPELRA), and the Force Science Institute.
Chief Moore is honored to have been nominated by the Florida Bar and appointed by the Florida Governor as a Commissioner on the Sixth Circuit Judicial Nominating Commission for the 2022-2026 term. She is also the current Chair of the Florida Bar’s Unlicensed Practice of Law Committee B for the Sixth Judicial Circuit. Chief Moore is a member of the Florida Sheriff’s Association Legal Advisors Section, the Florida Police Attorney’s Association, the Major County Sheriff’s Office of America Legal Advisors Section, and the International Association of Chiefs of Police Legal Advisors Section, and the West Pasco Bar Association. Chief Moore is also an adjunct professor for Pasco Hernando State College teaching American Federal Government.
In addition to being active in the legal community, Chief Moore is also involved with numerous Pasco community organizations and serves on several local non-profit organization boards. She is currently the Chair of the Pasco Education Foundation Board of Directors; the Secretary of Pasco Pace Center for Girls Board of Directors; and serves as a member of the Pasco Sheriff’s Charities Board of Directors. She also previously served on the Salvation Army Domestic Violence Program Advisory Board where she received the 2016 Volunteer Appreciation Award.
Undersheriff of Community Outreach Operations
Chief Chase Daniels
Chief Chase Daniels is the Undersheriff of Community Outreach Operations for the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. Chief Daniels worked in Tallahassee for State Representative Jimmie Smith and State Senator Charlie Dean for seven years before joining the Pasco Sheriff’s Office as the Policy Director in 2015. He was later promoted to the role of Assistant Executive Director of the Office of the Sheriff, and later became the Chief of the Community Engagement Bureau. In his current role as Undersheriff, he oversees the Public Information Office, Community Engagement, Customer Service, Force Development, F1RST, Human Performance, and the agency’s legislative and policy efforts at the local, state, and federal levels on behalf of Sheriff Chris Nocco.
Field Operations Bureau
Field Operations Bureau Commander
Major Joseph Irizarry
Major Joe Irizarry began his law enforcement career in 1998, working in the Detention Center, at the Arlington County Sheriff’s Office, in Virginia. In 1999 he joined the Prince William County Police as a Patrol Officer until he moved to Florida in 2001 and joined the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. Since then, he has held various assignments at Sheriff’s Office such as Patrol Deputy, K-9 Deputy, and Vice & Narcotics Detective.
In 2011 he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and served as a Patrol, Environmental Crimes, and K-9 Unit supervisor. In 2015 he was promoted to Lieutenant and assigned to oversee the Special Operations Bureau until 2017 when he was assigned as the Operational Support Lieutenant for District 3 until his promotion to Captain in 2018. During his time as a Captain, he served in all three Patrol Districts and the Support and Training Division until his promotion to Major. He currently serves as the Major of the Field Operations Bureau.
Major Irizarry also served on the Pasco Unified SWAT Team as an Operator, Team Leader, and SWAT Commander. Major Irizarry’s is married to Sergeant Kristina Irizarry who is assigned to the Investigations & Intelligence Bureau, as the District 3 Major Crimes Unit Supervisor. They have 3.5 kids, 2 sons, a daughter, and a German Shepard. Major Irizarry holds a Bachelor of Arts and Masters of Science in Criminal Justice, both from Saint Leo University.
Patrol Division, District 1
Captain Stephen Hartnett
Captain Stephen Hartnett is completing his 30th year in law enforcement, with most of his service time being with the City of Tampa. Brought on board with the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in September 2014, Captain Hartnett spent the first two years of his employment assigned to Operations and Logistics where he was billeted as the Law Enforcement Academy Director at Pasco Hernando State College and as the Captain overseeing the Training Unit. Since January 2017, Captain Hartnett has been assigned to the Field Operations Bureau where he oversees operations in District III as the District Commander.
Over the span of his law enforcement career, Captain Hartnett has held a variety of positions covering a wide spread of roles. Other than patrol, Captain Hartnett has held assignments in field training, street level narcotics and prostitution, and latent investigations of property crimes. In addition to his assignments, Captain Hartnett has earned many practical law enforcement certificates that include Crime Prevention Practitioner, Traffic Re-constructionist/Homicide Investigator and Instructor.
Captain Hartnett is a 1985 graduate of The Citadel, Military College of South Carolina and holds a Master’s of Science Degree in Criminal Justice from Saint Leo University earned in 2008. In addition to his degrees, Captain Hartnett recently received a Certificate in Public Management from Florida State University. He has been married for 29 years to his wife Katie, and a family that consists of 2 grown boys ages 27 and 23, and a feisty 7 year old wire haired fox terrier named Copper.
Patrol Division, District 2
Captain Daniel Olds
Captain Dan Olds began his career with the Pasco Sheriff’s Office as a volunteer law enforcement Explorer at age 14. In June of 2000, he was hired as a law enforcement deputy and patrolled west Pasco. Dan has had the opportunity to serve in a variety of positions during his career to include:
- Deputy, Community Relations Section
- Detective, Secondary Victims Unit
- Corporal, School Resource Officer Unit
- Sergeant, District I, District III, Field Training Program, Judicial Process and Fugitive Warrants
- Lieutenant, Shift Commander District I and District III, Assistant Communications Director
In June of 2017, Dan was promoted to Captain and served in a dual position as the Director of the Pasco County Department of Emergency Services for the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners, overseeing the Consolidated Communications Center responsible for processing all 911 calls and dispatching all Sheriff’s Office, Dade City Police and Fire Rescue calls for service. Dan currently serves as the District II Commander in the Field Operations Bureau.
Dan is a member of the Rotary Club of New Port Richey and the National Emergency Numbers Association (NENA). Dan also serves on the Board of Directors for the Fivay High School Criminal Justice Program and the Pasco E-School Criminal Justice Academy. Dan is a graduate of the Criminal Justice Executive Institute’s Leadership Academy and attended the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Executive Leadership Seminar. Dan is a Pasco County native, is a graduate of Gulf High School and attends Saint Leo University.
Patrol Division, District 3
Captain Jason Sarne
Captain Sarne began his law enforcement career in December 1998 assigned as a Patrol Deputy in District 2. Four years later he was transferred to the STOP (Street Tactical Operations Patrol) Team and a year after that to Vice and Narcotics as a Detective. After serving over six years, he returned to Patrol and was appointed to Patrol Corporal. He also served as Corporal of the District 2 STAR (Strategic Targeted Area Response) Team for over two years and an ACE (Active Crimes Enforcement) Detective before being promoted to Sergeant in 2013.
As a Sergeant, he was assigned to Patrol, the Warrants Unit, and returned to Vice and Narcotics as a Sergeant for another three years.
In 2017 he was promoted to Lieutenant and served as a shift commander in all three Patrol Districts. In 2019 he was assigned as an Operational Support Lieutenant in District 3 until his promotion to Captain.
Captain Sarne was a member of the HNT (Hostage Negotiation Team) for eight years and achieved the position of Team Commander. Captain Sarne has an AA degree and BA degree in Criminal Justice, both from Saint Leo University. He has also attended the Command Officer Management Program at Saint Leo University.
Captain Sarne has lived in Pasco County for over thirty years and is a third-generation law enforcement officer. He spends his time away from the Sheriff’s Office traveling and spending time with his family.
Public Safety Communications
Captain Eric Seltzer
Captain Eric Seltzer oversees the Public Safety Communications division of the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. Eric was born and raised in the Bronx, New York. He had the honor of beginning his law enforcement career with the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in 1995. He worked road patrol for three years before earning the position of Field Training Officer (FTO). Shortly after becoming a FTO he was transferred into the Youth Services Section where he was appointed to the position of Corporal in the Youth Resource Unit. While in the unit he worked juvenile related crimes and served on a Multi-Agency Gang Task Force which served the Tampa Bay Area.
After approximately a year in the Youth Services Section Eric was transferred to a Detective position in Crimes Against Children and worked those cases until early 2000, when he was reassigned to Major Crimes working primarily Homicides, Sex Crimes and Robberies until his promotion to Sergeant in May of 2007. For the next seven months he worked in the Patrol Division until December of 2007, at which time, he was privileged to be brought back into the Criminal Investigation Bureau as a Sergeant of the Major Crimes and Victim Advocate Units. During his tenure as Sergeant in that unit, he oversaw the investigation of violent crimes and victim services.
In May of 2012 he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant by Sheriff Chris Nocco, and appointed to oversee the Major Crimes Section where he supervised Major Crimes, Missing Persons, Sex Offender, Cyber Crimes, Economic Crimes and Victim Advocate units, as well as overseeing the Pasco Sheriff’s Office MAC Team. In October of 2014, Eric transferred back to Patrol Operations working in District III Patrol as a Nightshift Platoon Commander until his promotion to Captain in May of 2015. Since being promoted to Captain, Eric has had the honor of serving in various roles including the Field Operations Bureau, Criminal Investigation and Intelligence Bureau, and the Operational Logistics Bureau overseeing Special Projects.
In 2005, Eric was awarded Detective of the Year, and the Sheriff’s Special Recognition Award for his investigative work that resulted in solving a 33-year-old case, and helping to develop the Pasco Sheriff’s Sex Offender Unit. He also received another Special Recognition Award, from The Missing Children Information Clearinghouse Advisory Board for his involvement in the investigations of the Murders and Abductions of Jessica Lunsford and Sara Lunde. In November of 2014, Eric had the honor of assisting the Pasco Sheriff’s Office earn National Certification of their Missing Abducted Child (MAC) Team. He is also a member of the National Homicide Investigators Association, a member of the Southern Association of Voice Stress Analyst, a founding member of (CART) the Tampa Bay Child Abduction Response Team, and previously served on the Tampa Bay US Secret Service Task Force.
Eric studied Criminal Justice at St. Leo University, he also attended St. Leo’s Command Management Program, as well as the Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute’s Executive Leadership Program. He guest lectures at USF, PHSC, and for the Florida Sheriff’s Association on various criminal justice topics. Eric also currently serves on the Pasco Kids First Executive Board of Directors, and is a Board of Directors Member for Crime Stoppers. His time spent away from the Pasco Sheriff’s office is dedicated to his wife of over 20 years and his 3 children.
Training and Support Division
Captain Toni Roach
Toni Roach began her career in law enforcement at the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in 2000 after graduating from USF with a degree in Criminology. After working patrol for two years, she moved on to Community Policing. While there she assisted with recovery efforts from Hurricane Charley and Hurricane Ivan. Toni moved on to School Resource Officer in 2006 teaching the DARE and GREAT programs to elementary and middle school students. In 2010 she transferred to the Training Section teaching New Member Orientation where she successfully proposed orientation be extended to six weeks to increase critical high liability and physical training.
In 2011 Toni Roach was promoted to Sergeant and spent a year in Patrol before moving on again to School Resource as a supervisor and again to Training as a supervisor. In 2015, she was promoted to Lieutenant and went back to patrol until 2017 when she was moved to Operational Support Lieutenant for District I and District III. Toni Roach is now presently assigned to Field Operations. Toni Roach is married to Lieutenant Robert Roach and has two children.
Investigations & Criminal Intelligence Bureau
Investigations & Criminal Intelligence Bureau Commander
Major Jeffrey Peake
Major Jeff Peake began his law enforcement career with the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in January 1998 and worked in all three districts as a patrol deputy. He has also held investigative and/or leadership assignments in Property Crimes, Economic Crimes, Major Crimes, Special Operations, School Resource, Professional Standards, Field Training Officer Program and the Crisis Management Team.
As a native resident of Pasco County, he attended Ridgewood High School and continued his education to obtain a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice. Additionally, he received his Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Administration from the University of South Florida. He is also a graduate of the Southern Police Institute Command Officers Development School and the FBI National Academy.
Major Peake has been recognized as Detective of the Year along with meritorious service awards for his leadership in the Field Training Officer Program and success leading an innovative burglary suppression team. He has also been recognized for his role in developing the Cyber Crimes Unit.
Major Crimes Division
Captain Chris Beaman
Chris Beaman began his law enforcement career in April of 2000 when he was hired by the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. Beginning in Patrol, as many newly hired law enforcement officers do, Chris patrolled the street of Pasco County for three years before he was transferred to the Property Crimes Unit. Those three years included a brief stint in the agency’s street crimes squad and being assigned to the agency’s Special Weapons and Tactics team.
While working burglaries, thefts and a sprinkling of economic crimes for two years, Chris’s investigative abilities began to take shape, and he was given the opportunity to transfer to the agency’s Major Crimes Unit. By this time his passion for investigations was in full bloom and he was given the awesome responsibility to investigate and arrest those responsible for some of the most heinous crimes in our community, everything from child abuse to homicide.
Eager for leadership and to impart his experience to those less seasoned deputies, Chris succeeded in receiving a promotion to Sergeant. This January 2009 promotion resulted in Chris being assigned to the agency’s District 1 area of Patrol. Soon thereafter, Chris was assigned to supervise the agency’s Property Crimes Unit where he was able to continue to convey his experience to those on his team. When Sheriff Nocco, as a result of the prescription pill epidemic, formed the agency’s Pharmaceutical Diversion Unit, Chris was called to supervise one of two squads. This landed Chris in the Narcotics Unit for two years where he worked as both a Pharmaceutical Diversion Unit Sergeant and, once created, an Active Crime Enforcement Unit Sergeant.
In the fall of 2013, Chris was promoted to Lieutenant where he served the citizens of Pasco County in District 3 Patrol as both a platoon commander and a Property Crimes Unit Commander. Lastly, before being given the privilege of serving as a Captain, he was the agency’s Inspector in Professional Standards.
Chris’s passions revolve around his faith and family and include aiding our community’s less fortunate children.
Special Investigations Division
Captain Stephen Frick
Captain Frick began his law enforcement career in June 1993. He was assigned as a patrol deputy in District 2 until he was transferred to Special Operations as a STEP deputy. In January 1996 he was transferred to Vice and Narcotics as a detective. During his time as a detective he was assigned to a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force in Tampa. He served as a task force agent for approximately seven years until he was promoted to Sergeant in 2005.
When he was promoted as a Sergeant he was assigned as a Vice and Narcotics Sergeant. As a Sergeant he served in Vice and Narcotics, Field Operations, and Juvenile Investigations. While assigned to Juvenile Investigations, he supervised a squad of School Resources Officers and a Juvenile Diversion Supervisor.
In May 2016 he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and assigned to Field Operations in District 1. As a Lieutenant he has also served as the Operational Support Lieutenant in District 1 and District 2 until his promotion to Captain.
Captain Frick has a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from The College at Brockport, State University of New York.
Captain Frick spends his time away from the Sheriff’s Office with his wife of 29 years and their two sons. They enjoy traveling and sports related activities.
Research and Analysis Division
Captain Larry Kraus
Captain Larry Kraus began his law enforcement career in February 2001 with the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) after serving four years in the United States Navy. Upon completion of the FHP Academy, he was assigned to Troop L in Broward County. In 2002, he transferred to Troop C in Pasco County, where he worked patrol for two years prior to being assigned to the DUI Squad. In 2009, he promoted to Sergeant and served as Troop C’s Public Affairs Officer, responsible for disseminating information to the public, media, and other interest groups.
In 2011, he was reassigned to the Bureau of Criminal Investigation and Intelligence. In April 2011, he was selected for the Interagency Threat Assessment and Coordination Group (ITACG) joint fellowship with the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the National Counterterrorism Center. The ITACG was created by congress to integrate state, local and tribal first responders with the Intelligence Community to strengthen information sharing.
In November 2012, Larry joined Leidos, as a Senior Counterterrorism Analyst assigned to NCTC’s Joint Counterterrorism Assessment Team (JCAT). JCAT’s mission is to improve information sharing and enhance public safety. In coordination with the FBI and DHS, JCAT collaborates with other members of the Intelligence Community to research, produce, and disseminate counterterrorism intelligence products for federal, state, local, tribal, and territorial government agencies and the private sector. JCAT also advocates for the counterterrorism intelligence requirements and needs of these partners throughout the Intelligence Community.
In April 2014, Larry was reassigned to NCTC’s 24/7 Operation Center, where he served as a Senior Counterterrorism Analyst in the Operation Intelligence Bureau (OIB). While in OIB he was responsible for maintaining 24/7 global terrorism situational awareness by independently researching and analyzing raw intelligence reporting and maintaining awareness of current threats.
In 2016, Larry joined the Pasco Sheriff’s Office as the Intelligence-Led Policing Manager. In 2017, Larry was selected to be the Director of the Intelligence-Led Policing Section. In 2019, Larry became Inspector of ILP, and was later promoted to Captain where he currently oversees the Research and Analysis Division.
Larry is a native Floridian and graduated from Zephyrhills High School in Pasco County. Larry attended Saint Leo University, where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice. He continued his education at George Washington University where he obtained a Masters of Professional Studies in Security and Safety Leadership with a Graduate Certificate in Strategic Cyber Security Enforcement.
Director of Investigations Bureau Support
Director Ken Killian, Ph.D.
Director Kilian was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. After graduation from High School, Director Kilian attended Northwestern University, where he played four years on the university’s baseball team. Following graduation, he relocated to the Tampa Bay area in 1999. Director Kilian began his career in child protective services with the Department of Children and Families. In 2001, he transitioned to the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office working as a child protective investigator (CPI). During his ten-year tenure in Pinellas County, he served as a mentor, trainer, and supervisor. Additionally, he was a trained member of the critical incident stress management team (C.I.S.M.); a team that lends peer support to agency members involved in traumatic incidents. In December, 2011, Director Kilian assumed his current position supervising the Pasco Sheriff’s Office Child Protective Investigations Division.
Director Kilian believes that education helps people to grow and develop. After he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education and Social Policy from Northwestern, he continued his education at Saint Leo University and earned a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice. He went on to further his education, earning a Ph.D. in Criminal Justice. Director Kilian is active in the Pasco County community as he is governing board member of Pasco Kids First, Inc., graduate of Leadership Pasco, member of the Pasco County Commission on Human Trafficking, and numerous other child welfare committees and workgroups, and speaker at child welfare conferences and other local and state events. During his free time, he enjoys spending time with family and friends.
Director of Cyber Enterprise
Director Charles Esposito
Director Chuck Esposito began his law enforcement career in 1983 with the Clearwater Police Department, serving as a reserve officer (while earning his Computer Science degree from the University of South Florida), patrol officer, field training officer, and crimes against children detective. As a detective in 1995, he pioneered online undercover investigations targeting child sexual predators, making the first online undercover arrest in central Florida, co-founding a statewide task force, and advocating for statutory changes and parental education to better protect children online.
In January 2000, Chuck joined the FBI as a Special Agent, primarily investigating computer intrusions and other cyber matters over his 20-year career. He was promoted to Supervisory Special Agent and FBI Headquarters Unit Chief, earning numerous awards, including the FBI Director’s Award and the Attorney General’s Award for Excellence. He served in Oakland, California; Washington, D.C.; and Copenhagen, Denmark.
Chuck is married with twins and a variety of pets. He enjoys spending time with his family and traveling. He is excited to return to local law enforcement in the area where his career began and looks forward to continuing, and enhancing, the agency’s innovative efforts in cyber and technology.
Joint Operations Bureau
Joint Operations Bureau Commander
Major Philip Kapusta
Major Philip Kapusta is Major, Joint Operations, Pasco Sheriff’s Office.
Major Kapusta is a retired U.S. Navy Captain (SEAL) and has served in a variety of command, staff and leadership positions throughout his career. He attended the U.S. Naval Academy and was commissioned in 1992 upon graduation. He went straight to Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training and graduated with Class 186.
His previous assignments include tours with SEAL Teams TWO and EIGHT as Assistant Officer-in-Charge and Officer-in-Charge of multiple platoons and as Assistant Operations Officer at Team EIGHT. Then-Lieutenant Kapusta served as a Company Officer and Instructor at the U.S. Naval Academy before transferring to Special Operations Command Central (SOCCENT) in 2001. He went on to serve as the Officer-in-Charge of Naval Special Warfare Detachment Little Creek before studying at the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College and the School of Advanced Military Studies. Subsequently, then-Lieutenant Commander Kapusta returned to SOCCENT as the Chief of Strategic Plans. He commanded Provincial Reconstruction Team Ghazni in 2009-2010 before transferring to U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM). While at SOCOM, he worked on strategic and compartmented plans and was the founding Director of the Donovan Group. Captain Kapusta retired from active duty in 2017 and worked at SOCOM as a contractor until joining the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in June 2019.
He holds a Bachelor of Science from the U.S. Naval Academy, a Master’s of Science from the Naval Postgraduate School, an Executive MBA from Benedictine College, and a Master’s of Military Arts and Science from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. His military awards include the Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medals, Joint, Army and Navy Commendation Medals, and numerous campaign and unit awards. He participated in combat operations in the former Yugoslavia, East Africa, Iraq and Afghanistan.
Special Operations Division
Captain Jared Hill
In 1992, Captain Hill enlisted into the US Army as an Infantryman where he served with the 53rd Separate Infantry Brigade until the rank of Sergeant. In 1994, he was commissioned into the Regular Army as a 2nd Lieutenant in the Infantry. He served as a Rifle Platoon Leader and Executive Officer for A Company, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment in the 82nd Airborne Division from 1994-1997.
His first assignment in Special Forces was a detachment commander in C Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) where he commanded Special Operational Detachment Alphas 331, 332, and 334 from 1999 to 2001. He then served from 2001-2002 as the Company Commander for the Headquarters and Support Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne).
Next he was selected and served as a Small Group Instructor for the Special Forces Detachment Commanders Qualification Course at the John F. Kennedy Special Warfare Center from 2002-2004. In 2005, he served as the 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) Adjutant and the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force – Afghanistan Assistant Operations Officer. In 2006 and 2007, he commanded Charlie Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne). He led Charlie Company on numerous combat operations during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Some of these operations include Operation MEDUSA, Operation EAGLE BANDIT, and Operation BAAZ TSUKA I and II.
After Operation MEDUSA he was awarded the Bronze Star for Valor, NATO Meritorious Service Medal, Canadian Commander and Chief Medal for his actions during the Battle of Sperwan Ghar in September 2006 as part of Operation MEDUSA. Jared also received the Purple Heart Medal for wounds received during the Battle of Sperwan Ghar. Before leaving 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), he also served as the Battalion Operation Officer. In July 2008, he continued serving as an Operation Officer in the USSOCOM, J33-Central Command Global Support Group.
In August 2010, Captain Hill was selected by the Commander of USSOCOM to be the USSOCOM Special Operations Liaison Officer (SOLO) to Australia. As part of Jared’s SOLO assignment he was assigned to the Australia Special Operations Command located in Bungendore, Australia and served as a key member of the country team member for the US Embassy, Canberra, Australia. Jared’s final assignment has been as the Training Readiness Division Chief in the Training Division for the United States Special Operations Command.
Some of Captain Hill’s US awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Joint Meritorious Unit Award, the Valorous Unit Award, the Bronze Star Medal for Valor and 2 oak leaf clusters, the Purple Heart, The Defense Meritorious Service Medal, The Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Joint Service Achievement Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the NATO Meritorious Service Medal, The Combat Infantry Badge, the Expert Infantry Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, Ranger Tab, and Special Forces Tab. Captain Hill’s foreign military decorations included Canadian Commander and Chief’s Medal. He has also earned Australian and British Parachutist badges.
Captain Hill is a graduate of the Infantry Officer Basic and Advance Courses, and the Special Forces Qualification Course. He holds a Master’s Degree from the United States Command and General Staff College and graduated from the University of South Florida in 1994.
After retiring from the US Army Jared worked for the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office as a Range Master and Firearms Instructor before returning to USSOCOM as a Defense Contractor. In March of this year Jared was hired by Sheriff Nocco for his experience and skill in directing crisis situations for a new the Emergency Operations Division in the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office.
Jared is a member and supporter of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Special Forces Association, AM VETs, and Wounded Warrior Foundation.
He is married to the former Caroline Gehring of Plant City, Florida. Caroline was a member of the United States Coast Guard and the former Assistant to the Management Counselor at the United States Embassy, Canberra, Australia. They have two sons Caleb, 20 and is currently a student at Florida Gulf Coast University and Joshua 16 a high school student at Calvary Christian High School.
Training Division
Captain Sanfa Johnson
Sanfa was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma on 17th May 1968. He graduated from Tulsa Memorial High School in June of 1986; afterwards he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps (USMC) as an Infantryman (O311). In 1987 he attended, and completed basic recruit training at the United States Marine Corps Recruit Depot (USMC-RD) in San Diego, CA.
In 1991, Sanfa completed his tour of duty with the Marines after four years, and eight months of service. He then returned home to Tulsa, Ok to begin his college education. Wishing to continue to serve his country, he then enlisted in the US Army Oklahoma National Guard (ONG), as a Petroleum Specialist (77F) for Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC), 1st/245th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne) (SOAR).
In 1993, he reenlisted active duty in the US Army as an Infantryman (11B), and was assigned to A Company, 5th 502nd (Berlin Brigade), Berlin, Germany. In 1994 the Berlin Brigade was disbanded, thus he was reassigned to the 101st Air Assault Division, Fort Campbell, KY. There he volunteered for the 311th Military Intelligence Battalion, Long Range Surveillance Detachment (LRSD), and served as a senior scout, and assistant team leader.
In 1995, Sanfa volunteered for the Special Forces assessment and selection program. After attending and being selected to become a Special Forces weapons sergeant (18 Bravo), he was reassigned to Ft Bragg, NC to attend the Special Forces Qualification Course (SFQC), and Basic Military Language Course (BMLC)-Spanish.
After his graduation, Sanfa was assigned to B Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Ft. Bragg, NC. Sanfa first served on Operational Detachment-Alpha (ODA) 752 (Mountain), then after a year and a half he was chosen to serve on ODA 755 (Maritime). In 2002, he was deployed to the Tarin Kowt Province, Afghanistan to participate in the Global War on Terrorism (GWOT). After his tour of duty was complete, Sanfa requested to attend specialized training, and assignment to a Commander’s In-extremis Force (CIF). In 2003, he attended and completed the Special Forces Advanced Reconnaissance, Target Analysis, and Exploitation Techniques Course (SFARTAETC).
At the end of 2003, he was assigned to C Co, 1st Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Stuttgart, Germany. During his tenure in C Company, Sanfa deployed for Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF III), and then later on as the Operations Sergeant of ODA 032, he deployed to Iraq again, this time in support of the Iraqi Counter Terrorist Force
In 2008, he concluded his tour of duty with C Co. 1st Bn, 10th SFG (A), and was reassigned to the Special Operations Command Europe (SOCEUR), there he served in the SOJ35 Contingency Operations directorate, and later as an SOJ37 Exercise Planner. After his three year tour was over in 2011, Sanfa was reassigned to the International Special Training Center (ISTC), Pfullendorf, Germany. At ISTC, he served as the Senior Enlisted Advisor (SEA) for the Combat Branch section, which focused on teaching NATO Special Operation Forces (SOF) partners critical SOF tactical level skills (Close Quarters Combat (CQC), Combatives, SOF Planning and Combat Marksmanship). In 2014, Sanfa was reassigned back to SOCEUR, as the SOJ5 NCOIC. Sanfa retired on the 1st of August 2017, with 30 years of combined service to our nation’s defense. Sanfa graduated from Norwich University and now serves as the Captain in the Training & Developement department.
The following are the medals, Badges, decorations that Sanfa has earned over the course of his military career:
- Afghanistan Campaign Medal w/ 2 Campaign Stars (ACM)
- Bronze Star Medal w/ 1 Star 2nd Award (BSM)
- Defense Meritorious Service Medal (DMSM)
- Meritorious Service Medal (MSM)
- Army Commendation Medal 4th Award (ARCOM)
- Joint Service Achievement Medal (JSAM)
- Army Achievement Medal 3rd Award (AAM)
- Joint Meritorious Unit Award (JMUA)
- USN Unit Commendation (NUC)
- Army Superior Unit Award (ASUA)
- USN Sea Service Deployment Ribbon (SSDR)
- Inter-American Defense Board Medal (IADBM)
- NATO Medal 2nd Award (NM)
- Kuwait Liberation Medal (Saudia Arabia) (KLM-Saudia Arabia)
- Kuwait Liberation Medal (Kuwait) (KLM-Kuwait)
- Army Good Conduct Medal 7th Award (AGCM)
- USMC Good Conduct Medal (GCM)
- National Defense Service Medal (NDSM)
- Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal 2nd Award (AFEM)
- South West Asia Service Medal w/ Bronze Service Star (SWASM)
- Global War On Terrorism Service Medal (GWOTSM)
- Iraq Campaign Medal w/ Campaign Star 3rd Award (ICM)
- Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon 3rd Award (NCOPDR)
- Army Service Ribbon (ASR)
- Overseas Service Ribbon 3rd Award (OSR)
- Special Forces Tab
- Ranger Tab
- Parachutist Badge
- Air Assault Badge
- Combat Infantryman’s Badge
Judicial Operations Division
Captain Jason Rock
Captain Jason Rock is currently the Captain of Judicial Operations Division, Pasco Sheriff’s Office.
Captain Rock is a retired US Army Lieutenant Colonel with over 30 years of combined active duty and U.S. National Security contractor service and has served in various leadership positions throughout his career. He began his military career in 1987 when he enlisted in the U.S. Army Military Police Corps and conducted law enforcement operations for tactical and community policing activities. He later obtained a commission as an active duty Nuclear, Biological, and Chemical warfare officer where he performed staff level planning and tactical reconnaissance functions. Following several years of service as an NBC reconnaissance officer, he transitioned back to the Military Police Corps as a midgrade officer. During that tenure, he performed community law enforcement, sensitive site security, special reaction team and patrol supervisory duties for a community of over 33 thousand personnel. He was later deployed to Italy with the Southern European Task Force (Airborne), where he assumed responsibilities as an installation provost marshal, which is commensurate with the functions and duties of a county sheriff. He was responsible for overseeing the conduct of criminal investigations, VIP security, traffic enforcement, K9 drug and bomb detection operations, physical security and installation access control, sensitive site security, Host Nations Law Enforcement Liaison, and crime prevention. Following the successful completion of that assignment, he later assumed the role as the SETAF Military Police Company Commander, where he performed tactical and community law enforcement support for multiple military installations and sensitive NATO sites across central Italy, performing criminal investigations a, site security and patrol functions. After successful serving overseas as a Military Police officer, he was assessed and selected into the special operations community where he spent the remainder of his career and retiring from the United States Special Operations Command in 2012. Upon completing his 24 years in the military service, he converted to civilian life as a cleared U.S. National Security contractor supporting the special operations forces by providing intelligence and special program support, until joining the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in late 2018.
Captain Rock is a highly experienced law enforcement and special operations officer, with a concentration in multiple disciplines; including law enforcement, physical security, unconventional warfare, counter-terrorism, and national security issues related to the disruption of terrorist and illicit trafficking networks.
Captain Rock is a graduate from Norwich University, where he holds a degree in Criminal Justice. He is a recipient of two Bronze Star medals for actions in combat, the Legion of Merit and numerous U.S. military and foreign awards and decorations. He is an internationally certified 5th degree blackbelt in traditional Japanese Jujutsu, and self-defense instructor, as well as a member of numerous professional national organizations. He is married to the former Donna Ruyle of Bourbonnais, Illinois, who is the Learning Center Coordinator for the international program INTO-USF at the University of South Florida in Tampa. They have two children, Kaileigh and Collin.
Director of Emergency Management
Director Andrew Donawa
Director Andrew Donawa is a highly skilled professional with extensive expertise in emergency management, emergency medical planning, and strategic program development. He specializes in creating and delivering comprehensive training programs tailored for technical staff, community leaders, and the general public, significantly improving their readiness for disasters and crises. Throughout his career, Mr. Donawa has consistently demonstrated exceptional capabilities in managing emergency operations, logistics, and budgets within government agencies.
Director Donawa’s career in emergency services began as a volunteer with a local rescue squad in North Carolina. His unwavering dedication and hard work allowed him to rise through the ranks, leading to his transition into the emergency management sector, where he provided vital crisis interventions for first responders.
In addition to his hands-on experience, Director Donawa has served as the Emergency Response Manager for the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association and Samaritan’s Purse, where he effectively acted as the key liaison between these organizations and federal agencies.
His professional background includes significant contributions to a Department of Homeland Security task force, during which he was deployed to various emergencies across the nation, addressing line-of-duty deaths, civil unrest incidents, and responding to both natural and man-made disasters. Director Donawa’s diverse experience and strong leadership qualities position him as a valuable asset in the field of emergency management.
Operational Logistics Bureau
Operational Logistics Bureau Commander
Major Justin Ross
Justin began his career with the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in June 2006. He had the opportunity to serve as a forensics technician, a deputy sheriff, and an economic crimes detective. In Economic Crimes, he worked numerous complex fraud investigations and was a member of the United States Secret Service financial crimes taskforce. Justin was recognized by the Secret Service for his efforts in several multi-jurisdictional counterfeit credit card, tax fraud, and counterfeit currency investigations.
In 2012, Justin was promoted to sergeant in District 3 patrol. While a sergeant in patrol, he served as the agency’s representative on a committee comprised of law enforcement agencies, hospitals, mental health facilities and other community partners on perfecting the response to and identifying services for persons suffering from mental illness. Justin also supervised the Economic Crimes Unit and Major Crimes Unit before being promoted to Lieutenant in 2016.
As a Lieutenant, Justin oversaw the Forensics and Property Evidence Sections, and in August 2016 he was selected to be the director of the Intelligence-Led Policing Section.
Justin was promoted to Captain in October 2017 and assigned to the Operational Readiness Division where he was responsible for developing the preparedness and directing the response of the Sheriff’s Office to unusual occurrences, active threats, and other critical incidents. In 2021, Justin was assigned to oversee the Force Development Division tasked with developing the knowledge, skills and capabilities of PSO members, improving agency process, and leading innovation in all facets of the agency. Justin also oversaw the agency’s aviation unit, unmanned aerial systems and robotics programs, the Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) Team, and Tactical Unmanned Systems Team.
In 2024, Justin was promoted to Major of the Operational Logistics Bureau responsible for Information Technology, Fleet Maintenance, Purchasing, and Construction Operations.
As a native resident of Pasco County, Justin graduated from JW Mitchell High School. While attending high school, he participated in the Pasco Sheriff’s Office Explorer program, an opportunity for young adults between 14-21 to learn about and be exposed to a career in law enforcement. After high school, he continued his education at the University of South Florida where he obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology and a Master of Arts in Criminal Justice Administration.
Director of Administrative Services
Director Joshua Luneau
Director Josh Luneau began his career with the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in 2018 as the Fleet Manager. In 2020, he received a Meritorious Service Award for his work on transforming the Fleet department. Josh was promoted to Director of Administrative Services in April 2024 and oversees Fleet Maintenance, Purchasing, and Construction Services.
Prior to coming to the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, Josh served 22 years in the United States Marine Corps. In 1995, Josh enlisted into the Marine Corps where he served with Marine Air Group 12 and then Combat Service Support Group 11 until the rank of Sergeant. In 2003, Sergeant Luneau deployed as the staff noncommissioned officer of the Equipment Reception Point for the 1st FSSG. In 2004, Josh deployed back to Iraq as the staff noncommissioned officer of the Equipment Reception Point and the Supply Chief of 1st Transportation Battalion.
Sergeant Luneau was promoted to Staff Sergeant in December 2004 and took over his first account at 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion where he served as the Inspector Instructor Supply Chief and the Causality Assistant Call Officer. Josh later served as the Supply Chief of MARSOC, Marine Special Operations Support Group where he was later selected for Gunnery Sergeant in December 2008. GySgt Luneau deployed with MARSOC 2nd Marine Special Operations Battalion Delta Company to Afghanistan. Upon his return, he redeployed back to 4th Assault Amphibian Battalion as their Logistics Chief and Logistics Officer. GySgt Luneau was half way through his tour there when he was selected for Master Sergeant in March 2013 and moved to 6th Motor Transportation Battalion where he filled the positions of Supply Chief and Logistics Chief. In 2015, Master Sergeant Luneau transferred back to MARSOC Marine Raider Regiment where he served as the Regimental Supply Officer, a Majors billet, until he finished out his career in May 2018.
Some of Master Sergeant Luneau’s awards and decorations include:
- Purple Heart
- Meritorious Service Medal in lieu of third award
- Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal in lieu of third award
- Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal
- Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal in lieu of sixth award
- NATO ISAF Medal
- Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal
- Navy Presidential Unit Citation
- Navy Unit Commendation
- Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation
- Humanitarian Service
Josh is a graduate of numerous courses/schools on leadership, supply chain management, logistics, inventory management, and acquisitions throughout his 22 years in the United States Marine Corps.
Josh is a member and supporter of the Florida Association of Governmental Fleet Administrators (FLAGFA), National Association of Fleet Administrators (NAFA), and is a board member for the General Motors Company Law Enforcement Product Council.
Josh was born in Manchester, New Hampshire. He is married to Sylvia Luneau and has one son and a sheep doodle.
Legal and Administrative Services Bureau
Senior Assistant General Counsel
Natalie Scruggs
Natalie Scruggs is the Senior Assistant General Counsel of the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. Natalie’s primary duties include supervision of the Human Resources Department, and providing legal guidance to agency staff, training agency members on updates to the law, reviewing agency policies and procedures to ensure compliance with federal and state law, reviewing contracts and public records requests, and responding to critical incidents which involve high liability issues, including SWAT team callouts and the Missing and Abducted Child (MAC) team callouts.
Prior to joining the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in 2014, Natalie was an Assistant State Attorney in Pinellas County from 2007 to 2014, where she prosecuted misdemeanor and felony cases. While at the State Attorney’s Office, she was a member of the DUI Manslaughter Squad and served as Assistant Misdemeanor Division Director before accepting a position with the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. She received her Juris Doctorate from Stetson University College of Law in Gulfport and her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Florida. She is certified through the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) as a Certified Professional, as a Florida Certified Labor Relations Professional through the Florida Public Employer Labor Relations Association (FPELRA), and the Force Science Institute.
Natalie is a member of the Florida Sheriff’s Association Legal Advisors Section and the Florida Police Attorney’s Association. She is the current President of the West Pasco Bar Association.
Senior Assistant General Counsel
Aoife Keenan
Education:
Bachelors from the University of South Florida. Juris Doctorate from Stetson University College of Law.
Work Experience:
2006-2010 – Assistant State Attorney in the First Judicial Circuit. Prosecuted felony cases. Time spent as special prosecutor prosecuting crimes against children.
2010-2020 – Department of Children and Families, Children’s Legal Services, First Judicial Circuit. Advocated for the safety, well-being, and permanency of Florida’s abused, abandoned, and neglected children. Various roles held-senior attorney, lead trial attorney and supervising attorney.
2020-2022 – Department of Children and Families, Assistant Region Counsel, Northwest Region. Provided legal counsel to the Department’s programs, institutions and administrative staff on Department initiatives concerning child welfare, substance abuse, mental health, and other Department services. Advocated for the protection of vulnerable adults subjected to abuse, neglect, exploitation or self neglect.
Senior Assistant General Counsel
Catherine Mansfield
Catherine “Catie” Mansfield is the Senior Assistant General Counsel of the Pasco Sheriff’s Office.
Catie’s legal career has been dedicated specifically to Pasco County and to public service. She started her career at the State Attorney’s Office of the 6th Judicial Circuit, working out of the New Port Richey Office. At the State Attorney’s Office Catie handled criminal cases including DUI, Battery, Aggravated Assault, Criminal Mischief, Domestic Violence, Stalking, Theft, Burglary, Sex Crimes, and Attempted Murder. In 2015, Catie began working for The Pasco Sheriff’s Office. Currently, Catie’s primary duties include supervision of the Accreditation Department and the Civil Process Unit, and providing legal guidance to agency staff, training agency members on updates to the law, handling Risk Protection Order cases, Civil Asset Forfeiture cases, responding to critical incidents which involve high liability issues, including SWAT team callouts and the Missing and Abducted Child (MAC) team callouts.Catie’s personal life has also been focused on public service.
Catie is a member of the Florida Sheriff’s Association Legal Advisors Section and the Florida Police Attorney’s Association. She is former chairperson of the Florida Bar Grievance Committee for the 6th Judicial Circuit. She is currently a member of the West Pasco Bar Association and the East Pasco Bar Association, a former Vice President of the Women’s Lawyers of Pasco (2017), a Past President of the West Pasco Bar Association (2022-2023) and is on the Professionalism Committee and the Law Week Committee of the West Pasco Bar Association.
Catie has been a Pasco County resident since she was three years old. She attended the University of North Florida where she obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology with a minor in Criminal Justice. She received her Juris Doctor from Florida Coastal School of Law with a certification in Sports Law. She also received pro bono honors for her volunteer work at the Public Defender’s Office of the 4th Judicial Circuit.
Chief Financial Officer
Chief Lisa Brown
Lisa Brown, a resident of Pasco County since 1979, graduated from Gulf High School in 1985. In 1988, she earned a Bachelors Degree in Business Administration majoring in Accounting from St. Leo College. Returning to school in 2005, she graduated from Troy State University in 2007 with a Masters Degree in Public Administration majoring in Public Personnel Management.
Brown worked as a comptroller for a construction company prior to joining the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in 1990 as an Accountant I. In 1992, she advanced to the position of Accountant II, and later was promoted to Director of Finance and Budget in 2000, her current position. She is responsible for over $100 million of federal, state and local revenue.
Affiliations:
- Notary Public since 1989
- Member of Florida Government Finance Officers Association since 1991
- Member of Government Finance Officers Association since 1991
- Florida Public Employer Labor Relations Association member 2004-2006
- Florida West Coast Credit Union Audit Committee Member since 2005
Awards:
- Civilian Employee of the Year 1992
- Civilian Employee of the Year 2006-2007
Personal:
Married 23 years. 16 year old son. Enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, attending concerts, and attending Tampa Bay Buccaneer football games.
Director of Budget
Director Krishna Gandhi
Krishna Gandhi serves the Pasco Sheriff’s Office as the Budget Director. His primary responsibilities include the coordination of the Sheriff’s Office Annual Budget and overseeing the grant process to ensure internal process functionality and external regulatory compliance.
Gandhi moved to Pasco County in 2000 and is a Ridgewood High School alumni. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration majoring in Finance and minoring in Management and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, both from the University of West Florida. He has also completed various leadership programs, including the Florida Government Finance Officers Association Leadership Program, the Certified Public Manager Program, Pinellas County’s Emerging Leader Program, and Pasco County’s Leadership Development Program.
Prior to joining the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, Gandhi worked in both the public and private sector for over 13 years. Gandhi served in various budgeting and finance roles for Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners as well as Pasco County Board of County Commissioners. He has experience in successfully building and managing teams, developing annual operating budgets exceeding $300 million, overseeing contracts management and grants, and ensuring compliance with Florida Statutes related to procurement and payable activities.
Gandhi is married to his supportive wife, Bhumi, since 2013. Together they have two amazing daughters, Nevya and Jaanvi.
Director of Finance
Director Eleftheria "Ria" Maris
Eleftheria Maris, or Ria as everyone calls her, began her tenure with the Sheriff’s Office in 2019. She serves the Pasco Sheriff’s Office as the Finance Director. Her primary responsibilities are focused on carrying out the mission statement of the Sheriff’s Office as it applies to financial operations.
Ria moved back to Florida in 2005 after spending almost a decade living in Australia on a sponsored work visa as a professional digital photographer. Since her return to Florida, she earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Supervision and Management for Public Service/Public Safety from PHSC and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Louisiana State University. In addition, Ria has earned the designation of a Certified Six Sigma Green Belt and is a graduate from the Pasco County’s Leadership Development Program.
Prior to joining the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, Ria was a dedicated Emergency Manager for Pasco County for 14 years. Her blue-sky responsibilities included managing the department’s budget, grants, and finances and she was diligent in her duties to guarantee compliance to Local, State, and Federal laws, to ensure that the department was fiscally responsible. Eventually Ria would oversee all financial aspects for both Emergency Management and Public Safety Communications. During her time as an Emergency Manager, she responded to sinkholes, wildfires, HAZMAT incidents, and tornadoes. During hurricane activations, Ria served as the lead Plans Section Chief for the County. She was recognized by the State of Florida as a Certified Plans Section Chief, by the Florida Emergency Preparedness Association as a Florida Professional Emergency Manager and held the credentials for an ICS instructor.
Ria has been serving Pasco County residents as a loyal public servant for the past 20 years.
Director of Human Resources
Director Melissa Hite
Director Hite oversees the Human Resources Division, and is responsible for creating and maintaining an atmosphere of customer service among all internal and external customers. Director Hite is involved in the coordination, implementation, maintenance, and supervision of all agency insurance program activities, and onboarding of staff for all agency positions. In addition, Director Hite is a member of the collective bargaining team, and is the designated Privacy Officer for the agency.
Director Hite began working for the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in January of 2012, and has spent her career with the agency in Human Resources. Since joining the agency, Director Hite was awarded Civilian Employee of the Quarter in 2015 and Civilian Employee of the Year in 2015. Prior to joining the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, she worked for a national health care company as a Corporate Compliance Investigator. During her time as a Corporate Compliance Investigator, Director Hite oversaw site locations in nine states, conducting investigations for violations of company policy and federal healthcare laws. While working as a Corporate Compliance Investigator, she also served as the delegated official for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid for her employer.
Director Hite obtained her SHRM Certification (Society of Human Resources Management) in 2018 and is an active member of the Society. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources Management at Saint Leo University.
Director Hite has been married to her very supportive Husband for 16 years and has an amazing 11 year old daughter. During her off time she enjoys spending quality time with family and friends.
Director of Records
Director Caitlin Morrison
Caitlin Morrison, was born and raised in Pasco County and graduated from Ridgewood High School in 2006. In 2008, she earned her Associate’s Degree from Pasco Hernando State College and later earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Central Florida. In 2023, Caitlin graduated from the Saint Leo University Command Officer Management Program: Executive Leadership Institute, Class XXVIII.
Caitlin worked in varies administration support roles with the Pasco County BOCC and private attorney’s offices prior to joining the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in 2018 as the Legal Affairs Coordinator. In 2021, she advanced to the position of Records and Report Management Administrator, and later was promoted to Records Director in 2023, her current position. She is responsible for the supervision and administrative oversight of the agency’s records retention; release of information; public records requests, including the intake, processing, coordination, and response to body worn camera and other public records requests and criminal discovery requests.
Affiliations:
- Notary Public since 2018
- Member of Florida Records Management Association since 2022
- Axon Body Worn Camera Instructor Certification 2023
Awards:
- Sheriff’s Special Service Award 2023
Community Engagement Bureau
Community Engagement Bureau Commander
Commander Michael Maurer
Commander Maurer is the Bureau Commander of the Community Engagement Bureau. Commander Maurer began his full-time law enforcement career in 1986 when he was hired with the Knox County Sheriff’s Office in Rockland, ME as a patrol deputy. In 1988 he was hired by the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office in Brooksville, FL as a patrol deputy. Commander Maurer rose through the ranks at the Hernando Sheriff’s Office and retired in 2020 as the Colonel. During his 30 plus years at the Hernando Sheriff’s Office, he held numerous positions to include command of the Patrol Division, Criminal Investigations, Judicial Services, Support Services Division, Operations Bureau Commander, and later Office of the Chief Deputy.
In January 2022, Commander Maurer joined the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office as the Director of Administrative Services, and later served as the Director of Public Affairs.
Prior to his full-time law enforcement career, Commander Maurer was a member of the United States Coast Guard. Attending basic training in Cape May, NJ in 1982 he would later be assigned to the Vice-Presidential Drug Task Force in Key West, FL. Later attended Health Services Technician School at the U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London, CT. Subsequently, he obtained his certification as an Air Crew Corpsman, and Advance Trauma Medic. After serving his active-duty obligation, Commander Maurer transferred into the U.S. Coast Guard Reserves where he was recruited into the Coast Guard Investigative Service (CGIS). He would serve in this role for the next twenty-four years as both an Investigator for the First Coast Guard District, Boston, MA and then a Special Agent for the Southeast Region Office (CGIS) in Miami, FL. His duties included Criminal Investigations related to maritime issues and Coast Guard missions, Uniform Code of Military Justice Investigations, Protective Service Operations and Law Enforcement and (HUMINT) Intelligence collection and reporting. Commander Maurer retired from the U.S. Coast Guard Reserves in 2010 as a Chief Investigator (IVC), Southeast Region (CGIS), Miami, FL with a total of twenty-eight years of service.
Commander Maurer has attended many specialized training programs to include: The Federal Bureau of Investigations National Academy Class #213, Quantico, VA, Florida Department of Law Enforcement Chief Executive Seminar, Tallahassee, FL, Federal Bureau of Investigation Law Enforcement Executive Development Seminar (LEEDS), Punta Gorda, FL, Florida Sheriff’s Institute, Tallahassee, FL, Advance Training at Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, Brunswick, GA, Advance Training (CGIS) Newport News, VA and Criminal Intelligence for the Police Executive, Fort Lauderdale, FL.
Commander Maurer was also an Instructor for the Florida Sheriff’s Association’s Commander’s Academy in Tallahassee, FL, a Florida State Certified Accreditation Assessor and a member of the Joint Terrorism Task Force Executive Committee, Tampa, FL.
Originally born in Teaneck, New Jersey he married the lovely Victoria Voltaggio of Vineland, New Jersey in Brooksville in 1998. Together they have a daughter, two dogs and three cats.
Community Engagement Division
Captain Justin Wetherington
Captain Wetherington began his career with the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in 2001 as a Corrections Deputy. He was appointed to Corporal in 2009 and promoted to Sergeant in 2011. He initially supervised Intake/Release and the Juvenile Assessment Center, and later transferred to the Criminal Process Section where he supervised Warrants, Teletype, Operation Payback, and the Sex Offender/Felon Registration Office.
In 2016, he was promoted to Lieutenant and was responsible for the Logistic Services Section. Throughout his career, Captain Wetherington has attended numerous training courses. He is dual certified in Law Enforcement and Corrections, and is a Certified Jail Manager through the American Jail Association. He has a Master’s degree in Criminal Justice from Saint Leo University, has attended the Florida Department of Law Enforcement Leadership Academy, Florida Sheriff’s Association Leadership Academy, Department of Homeland Security Leadership Academy, and Saint Leo University’s Command Officer Management Program. Captain Wetherington served in the United States Marine Corps and was a member of the Pasco Sheriff’s Honor Guard and Deployable Emergency Response Team. He is a Board Member for Sunrise of Pasco County, the Chairman of the Pasco Sheriff’s Office Career Service Appeals Board and President of the Board of Trustees for Pasco Safety Town.
Innovation and Readiness Division
Captain Andrew Denbo
Captain Andy Denbo currently oversees the Innovation and Readiness Division of the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, serving as the Division Commander and also the Director of F1RST (Florida’s Forensic Institute for Research, Security, and Tactics). He oversees several specialty units and manages the agency’s projects related to innovation and readiness as well as the F1RST Campus. Since joining the Sheriff’s Office in 2011, Captain Denbo has held various roles, including Field Training Officer, Patrol Corporal, FTO Corporal, STAR Deputy, and STAR Corporal. As a Detective in the Ace Crime Enforcement Unit of the VICE/Narcotics Division, he investigated violent crimes, gang activity, and property crimes in Pasco County.
Promoted to Sergeant in 2018, Captain Denbo led patrol squads on the east side of Pasco County before being appointed Sergeant of the STAR Unit in District 1 and later in District 2, where he focused on disrupting criminal networks. His tenure includes over six years as Commander of the Apprehension Reconnaissance & Coordination (ARC) team, leading deputies in covert surveillance and tactical tracking and apprehension of dangerous fugitives. As an FAA Remote Pilot, he also oversees the Unmanned Systems Team (UST), managing a fleet of over 25 drones, robots, and 15 pilots using technology to handle dangerous situations, critical incidents, large events, and to locating missing persons.
Captain Denbo has been recognized for his service with awards, including Deputy of the Year in 2016 and 2018, a servant leadership award, and life-saving awards. In 2021, he was appointed Sergeant of Operational Readiness, managing specialty teams and ensuring preparedness for critical incidents. In 2022, he was promoted to Inspector of Force Development, overseeing training programs, leadership development, specialty units like ARC and UST, and the agency’s RDT&E program. In 2024, he was appointed Division Commander of the Innovation & Readiness Division, continuing his leadership in advancing the capabilities and readiness of the Pasco Sheriff’s Office.
Director of Health & Human Performance
Director Matthew Krause
Matt Krause is the F1RST Health & Human Performance Director for the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. Matt launched his career in Law Enforcement (by joining F1RST and Pasco Sheriff’s Office) after working 25 years with college and pro sports teams as the Certified EXOS Performance Specialist.
Matt earned his bachelor’s degree (BS) in exercise and sports science & sports medicine from East Carolina University in 1997. He earned his master’s degree (MA) in physical education from University of Central Florida in 1999 launching their S&C program as the first graduate assistant and then becoming the first fulltime Strength & Condition assistant coach. Matt is a certified strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS*D) with distinction from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). He is a Registered Strength and Conditioning Coach Emeritus (RSCC*E) and a certified athletic trainer (ATC) for the National Athletic Trainers’ Association.
While working in pro sports he served six seasons as the Yankees’ Director of Strength and Conditioning (2014-2019). He spent 11 seasons with Cincinnati (2003-13), including nine as their Major League strength and conditioning coordinator (2005-13). Matt was the Reds organization’s minor league strength and conditioning coordinator from 2003-04. Prior to joining the Reds, Matt spent three years in the Pirates organization, serving as the minor league strength and conditioning coordinator from 2001-02 and Single-A Hickory strength coach in 2000. Matt worked with the Chicago Cubs as an intern with Single-A Daytona in 1999.
Matt is the Administrative Director of the Professional Baseball Strength & Conditioning Coaches Society the PBSCCS. He served over 10 years on the PBSCCS Board and 2 years as President. He sits on the Performance Committee and is a national speaker for the NSCA.
Over 25 years Matt Krause has received numerous awards. He is the 2018 NSCA Professional Strength Coach of the Year. Matt was the American League Strength representative for the 2015 MLB All-Star Game in Cincinnati. Matt was named the 2013 “Nolan Ryan – Hammer Strength” PBSCCS Strength Coach of the Year. This award honors the outstanding Strength and Conditioning Coach in professional baseball whose accomplishments, in the opinion of peers, reflect an exemplary dedication to strength and conditioning. While with the Reds, in 2012 he was part of MLB Medical Staff of the Year Award.
Matt is native of Lynbrook, NY and is a former U.S. Marine. He resides in Tampa, Fla., with his wife, LuzMaria, daughter, Olivia and son, Matthew.
Strategic Initiatives Bureau
Strategic Initiatives Bureau Commander
Major James Mallo
Major Mallo has served as a law enforcement officer within the State of Florida for the last 33 years and the last 24 of those years in his hometown community of Pasco County. He has been a member of the command staff at the Pasco Sheriff’s Office for over 14 years and has led many areas within the agency. He is currently responsible for the Strategic Initiatives Bureau which encompasses the School Safety and Youth Services, Behavioral Health Intervention, Community and Agency Resiliency, and Citizen Support Services divisions. During his career, he has worked as a Police Officer with the Florida State Capitol Police, Special Agent with the Florida Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco, and Senior Police Officer with the Temple Terrace Police Department. James has experienced the diverse perspectives of working within State, County, and City government.
James graduated from Gulf High School in New Port Richey and St. Pete Jr. College in Tarpon Springs. He furthered his education and attended the University of South Florida where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, a Master of Arts degree in Criminal Justice Administration, and a Certificate in Project Management. In 2014, he also earned a Graduate Certificate in Criminal Justice Education from the University of Virginia, as he simultaneously graduated from the Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy, Class #258.
James’ family moved to Pasco County in 1971. James has been married to Laura Mallo for 29 years and has twins who are currently in college. The Mallos also have two canine family members, Dolly and Bella. James most enjoys spending time with his family and helping others. Some of Major Mallo’s accomplishments and volunteer efforts include:
- University of South Florida Wall of Fame – Department of Criminology Distinguished Alumni – Recipient
- Leadership Pasco – Judith Rochelle Award Winner
- Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind – King Pithla – Nominee
- Rotary Club of Trinity – Board Member
- Youth and Family Alternatives – Chairman
- Pasco Republican Executive Committee – Precinct Committeeman
- Chairman of the Republican Party of Pasco County
- RAP River Run – Steering Committee – Board Member
- Leadership Pasco Class of 2012 – Graduate
- Leadership Pasco Board of Directors – Director Emeritus
- The Big Blue BBQ (helping Law Enforcement Officers in Need) – Chairman
- Wheelchairs 4 Kids – Volunteer Fundraiser
- Pasco County MPO – Citizens’ Advisory Committee – Vice Chairman
- FBI National Academy Associates – Member
- National Internal Affairs Investigators Association – Past President
- Pasco Safety Town – Past President
- Coalition for the Homeless of Pasco County – Past Board Member
School Safety & Youth Services
Captain Mike Jenkins
Captain Mike Jenkins began his law enforcement career with the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in October of 2000. During his tenure at the PSO, Mike has been privileged to serve in a wide variety of law enforcement capacities, to include:
- Deputy, Field Training Officer (FTO), Corporal, Sergeant, FTO Sergeant and Lieutenant in Road Patrol
- Corporal in the School Resource Officer Unit
- Detective in Secondary Victims, Juvenile Investigations, Narcotics, and Major Crimes
- Inspector in the Professional Standards / Internal Affairs Unit
- In May of 2015, Mike was promoted to Captain and assumed command of District III Patrol – Trinity District. In January of 2017, Mike was selected to serve as the Commander of the Special Investigations Division.
Mike has been recognized as a criminal street gang expert in the Sixth Judicial Circuit and has taught at conferences sponsored by the Department of Justice and the Florida Gang Investigators Association on the topic of Criminal Street Gangs Investigations.
Additionally, Mike has served as an Adjunct Professor for the University of North Florida, teaching the subject of Police Internal Affairs and Interview and Interrogation Techniques for IA Investigators. These classes were held across the United States under the oversight of UNF’s Institute of Police Technology & Management.
Mike served as an Executive Board Member of the National Internal Affairs Investigators Association from 2011 – 2015, and served as President of the NIAIA from 2013 – 2014.
Mike has a B.A. degree in Biblical Studies from Trinity College of Florida and has been married to his wife Angela for over twenty years. Mike and Angela have six children together and have lived in Pasco County since 1997.
Executive Director of Community and Agency Resiliency
Executive Director Brian Brown
Executive Director Brian Brown brings vision and leadership to the Volunteer Chaplain Unit and the Family Support Network and serves to connect agency members and their immediate families to the tools and resources they need for spiritual and mental health. Through programs, such as our annual Spouse Academy, Summer Blast, Coffee and Conversations, Member Disaster Relief Assistance and various training opportunities, Executive Director Brown works to ensure our families and members know about the support available to them.
Executive Director Brown has been associated with the Pasco Sheriff’s Office since April of 2011, when he began serving as lead chaplain. He brings to our agency a deep reservoir of experience with community engagement, organizational leadership, and faith-based initiatives.
Executive Director Brown has been married to his wife for 25 years, and together they have two sons.
Director of Citizen Support Services
Director Nicholas Kaller
Nicholas began working for the Pasco Sheriff’s Office in May of 2017, and currently serves as the Director of Citizen Support Services. In his role, he oversees the Citizen Service Unit, Extra Duty Program, Reserve Deputy Program, Agency Volunteers and the Mounted Posse.
Prior to coming to the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, Nicholas worked for the New Port Richey Police Department for approximately 10 years. During his time at the New Port Richey Police Department, Nicholas served in many roles, including K-9 Handler and Field Training Officer. Nicholas holds numerous certificates in the field of criminal justice, and obtained a Masters’ degree in Criminal Justice from Saint Leo University.
Nicholas is married to his wife, Jackie, and they have two sons. The Kaller family enjoys travelling, fishing, and rooting on their Tampa Bay sports teams. They also enjoy attending church and various community/charity functions.
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