BUNNELL, Fla. – What could have easily been a retirement party celebrated something far greater: the continued service of Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly.
Gathered at the Flagler County Sheriff’s Operations Center on Tuesday, friends, colleagues, and community leaders came together to honor Sheriff Staly’s 50 years in law enforcement—a milestone marked by courage, integrity, and unwavering dedication.
An Early Start, a Near Early End
Staly’s passion for law enforcement began early, as a police explorer inspired to protect and serve. That commitment was tested at just 23 years old when he nearly lost his life in the line of duty—an event that could have ended his story far too soon.
It was Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, one of Florida’s most respected lawmen, who recounted the harrowing incident that nearly claimed Staly’s life. The retelling reminded those in attendance how close the community came to never knowing the man who would later define Flagler County law enforcement.
“There’s always people behind us who have to face the thought of what can happen,” said U.S. Congressman Randy Fine. “Particularly when you’re in a career where there is personal risk and personal safety, there’s always something bad that could happen to you. So, while this is not only a recognition of Sheriff Staly for 50 years of service, it is also a recognition of Debbie for being willing to be there as he’s put himself in harm’s way for all of us.”
Setting the Bar
Throughout his career, Staly has been a model of professionalism and a mentor to others in law enforcement. Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook shared both humor and heartfelt admiration for the future president of the Florida Sheriffs Association.
“I figured using my Clay County math, I was in kindergarten when Sheriff Staly started his career,” she joked. “And I’m looking at all these agencies and thinking, man, this dude can’t keep a job.”
Her tone quickly shifted to sincere respect. “These characteristics are what make him so respected and admired within our Florida Sheriffs Association,” said Cook, highlighting his faith-driven decision-making and steadfast values. “Finally, this is a man of integrity. This is a family of integrity. You know that Rick Staly is going to do the right thing even when it is really hard.”
Bunnell Police Chief David Brannon echoed those sentiments, recalling Staly’s lasting influence. “He was an instructor in a class I attended once as a sergeant coming up through Volusia County Sheriff’s Office. The long-term dedication he’s given to this profession, and his commitment to the safety of the communities that he’s served, I think is the legacy he leaves behind.”
A Legacy of Leadership
Among the many tributes, the words of Dr. Joe Saviak captured the essence of Staly’s enduring impact. “Sheriff Rick Staly has an incredible devotion to duty,” Saviak said. “He’s made a lot of sacrifices to serve—including being shot three times saving the life of a fellow deputy sheriff. He feels very passionate about committing his life and his leadership and all of his talents, energies, and efforts to ensuring that any community that he’s protecting and serving is receiving exemplary law enforcement service.”
“He’s a role model, a mentor, a coach, a good friend, and someone we can always look to for wise counsel and positive encouragement. He is the very definition of a leader.”
Retired Division Chief David Williams reflected on how far the agency has come under Staly’s leadership. “Sheriff Staly has really brought this agency out of the dark ages into the modern ages,” said Williams. “Just watch that man work—to see someone who’s truly dedicated to the job, to see the results. Inspirational.”
A Ripple Effect
Deeply moved by the tributes including one by the Sons of the American Revolution, a key to the city presented by Palm Coast Vice Mayor Teresa Pontieri, and a proclamation presented by the Flagler County Board of County Commissioners, Sheriff Staly expressed gratitude and humility. The renaming of the Sheriff’s Operations Center in his honor, he said, was an incredible and humbling recognition.
“This is an amazing recognition. I’m just very honored that the Board of County Commissioners did that, and the turnout of the community,” he said. “It’s heartwarming to know that people have said I had an impact on them. That’s what life should be about—having a positive impact on people.”
Looking Ahead
Though the day could have marked the end of a distinguished career, Sheriff Staly made it clear his work is far from done. He plans to run for office again in 2028—with the full support of his wife, Debbie—and joked that if retirement involves folding laundry, he might even run again in 2032.
A leadership book is also in the works, ensuring his insights and experience will continue to guide future generations.
As Congressman Randy Fine put it, “Rick has been an amazing mentor and friend as I got introduced to politics up here. His commitment and his service are extraordinary, and I hope he gets to serve for another 50 years.”
Postscript: The surprise event was organized by Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Chief Mark Strobridge with the help of the dedicated men and women of the FCSO.
