The Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) is pleased to announce that Master Deputy (MD) Crista Rainey has been named the Northeast Florida Crime Stoppers Officer of the Year for 2021!
MD Rainey, a nine-year law enforcement veteran, was nominated by Sheriff Staly for this prestigious honor after two successful life-saving events last year, as well as an apprehension of a violent fugitive and career-felon suspected of murder when a “routine” traffic stop turned violent. She exemplifies a life of dedicated service, acts of kindness, and compassion both personally and professionally. She was selected for this award for her proactive approach to policing and her ability to stay calm in the midst of critical incidents. Sheriff Staly wrote in the nomination, “MD Rainey’s track record of proactive enforcement, combined with her positive attitude, and community engagement are commendable and deserving of recognition.”
In 2015, MD Rainey joined FCSO as part of the Community Policing Division after working as a patrol officer with the Flagler Beach Police Department (FBPD). She demonstrates exemplary proactive patrol skills and demonstrates remarkable leadership abilities. She was selected to serve as a Field Training Officer where she is committed to training new deputies joining the agency. Aside from her dedication to serving and protecting Flagler County as a law enforcement officer, MD Rainey also volunteers her time with the Special Olympics, Flagler Sheriff’s Children’s Charities, and Surfers for Autism.
“As the Sheriff of Flagler County and Past President of CrimeStoppers, I appreciate the longstanding relationship with CrimeStoppers of Northeast Florida and am proud of Master Deputy Rainey for her commitment to keeping our community safe,” Sheriff Rick Staly said. “She consistently goes above and beyond the call of duty, exemplifies professionalism and is dedicated to serving the people of Flagler County. MD Rainey played a huge role in several life-saving incidents in 2021, including a suicidal juvenile attempting to jump from an overpass bridge. She also had to overpower a violent felon attempting to grab his hidden firearm while being detained during a traffic stop. She is an outstanding deputy and we are lucky to have her as a part of our team.”
MD Rainey was presented the 2021 Northeast Florida Crime Stoppers Officer of the Year Award by CrimeStoppers of Northeast Florida President Spencer Hathaway during the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners meeting on the morning of February 7, 2022.
Melissa Morreale
Public Affairs Officer
Organizational Services Division
Flagler County Sheriff’s Office
