Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Employees, Volunteers Honored at 2025 First Quarter Awards Ceremony

By-Line: Tonya Woodworth, Director of Public Information FCSO

Employees who rescued a man threatening to jump from an overpass helped deliver a baby, and volunteers who put in valuable volunteer hours are among those who were honored during the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office’s 2025 First Quarter Awards Ceremony held on April 24, 2025, at the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Operations Center.

Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly awarded multiple Life Saving Awards to employees for their roles in saving the lives of others. Sheriff Staly also awarded the Sheriff’s Citation Award, Unit Citations, Certificates of Commendation and Appreciation, and other awards to employees and volunteers as part of the ceremony.

“Please join me in thanking all of our incredible employees and volunteers who went above and beyond the call of duty,” said Sheriff Staly. “I am honored to lead this amazing team made up of so many great men and women who selflessly work to serve and protect the citizens of Flagler County.”

Three employees received Employee of the Month recognition, while 18 others were recognized for reaching years of service milestones from five to 40 years.

Below is a summary of each award winner and why they received an award.

SHERIFF’S CITATION AWARD – Detective Sergeant George Hristakopoulos

Since July 2016, Detective Sergeant George Hristakopoulos has played a pivotal role in developing and maintaining exemplary standards within the Major Case Unit, directly contributing to unprecedented levels of success. He has established a culture of steadfast determination, resulting in the relentless pursuit of justice for victims within Flagler County. This culture has been key to maintaining the Major Case Unit’s exceptionally high standards, ensuring that each case is pursued with the utmost professionalism and tenacity.

LIFE-SAVING AWARD – Deputies First Class Bryan Carter and Laura Jenkins, Deputies Cameron Punsky and Kyle Somers

On March 18, deputies responded to a report of a male who was straddling the road sign on Interstate 95 hanging above State Road 100 in Palm Coast. Deputies First Class Bryan Carter and Laura Jenkins of the FCSO Crisis Negotiations Team, with the assistance of Deputy Kyle Somers who had a rapport with the male, were able to talk to him, de-escalate the situation, and convince him to enter a bucket on Palm Coast Fire Department’s Tower 24. Deputy Cameron Punsky was standing by in the bucket to help secure the male. He was safely lowered onto SR 100 and secured.

LIFE SAVING AWARD – Communications Specialist Lindsey Stanford

On January 14, Communications Specialist Lindsey Stanford received a 911 call reporting an unresponsive and non-breathing 8-month-old infant. Communications Specialist Stanford immediately assessed the situation and asked if anyone on the scene was familiar with CPR. Upon learning that no one was, she provided clear and calm instructions, guiding the caller to place the baby flat on his back and begin CPR. To ensure compressions were performed at the proper rate, Communications Specialist Stanford counted aloud, providing real-time support and encouragement. Remarkably, after just one round of chest compressions, the baby began breathing again and could be heard crying in the background. Communications Specialist Stanford remained on the line with the caller, closely monitoring the situation to ensure the baby continued breathing until units arrived on scene. Due to her quick actions and professionalism, life-saving CPR was initiated within seconds of the call being received, leading to a positive outcome for the infant.

UNIT CITATION – Chief Deputy Joseph Barile; Chief Bernard Woodward; Commanders Brian Finn and Kenny Goncalves; Detective Sergeant Frank Gamarra; Sergeants Trevor Jacob and Chris Ragazzo; Corporals Joseph Barnett and Richard Petkovsek; Master Deputy Edward Faircloth; Deputies First Class Bryan Carter and Laura Jenkins; Deputies Iverson Brown, Blake Colson, Tyler Harmon, Robert Harrington, Lauren Liptak, Troy Magnuson, Matthew Mortimer, David Roman, Cameron Punsky, Kyle Somers, Brendon Torres, Bret Wood, and Jonathan Zalak; Real Time Crime Center Manager Nikki North; RTCC Analyst Taylor Cousin; Communications Specialist Lucas Santos; and FBPD Officer Evan Scherr

On March 18, 2025, deputies responded to a report of a male who was straddling the road sign on Interstate 95 hanging above State Road 100 in Palm Coast. Deputies First Class Bryan Carter and Laura Jenkins of the Crisis Negotiations Team, with the assistance of Deputy Kyle Somers who had a rapport with the male, were able to talk to him, de-escalate the situation, and convince him to enter a bucket on Palm Coast Fire Department’s Tower 24. Deputy Cameron Punsky was standing by in the bucket to help secure the male. He was safely lowered onto SR 100 and secured. All involved assisted and ensured a safe resolution.

UNIT CITATION – Citizen Observer Patrol Chief Roberson Brown Jr.; COP Commanders Robert Millett and Peter Sarni; COP Sergeant Thomas Semon; COP Corporals Mark Price and James Zimmerman; COPs Richard Bellebuono, Jill Dempsey, Marc Friedman, Deborah Morman, Carlos Nunez; Lawrance Pulos, Ronald Ragsdale, Kevin Riebsam, William Schuyler, Arthur Tyler, and Edward Walsh

In 2024, Citizen Observer Patrol members logged a collective total of just over 29,000 volunteer hours in service to FCSO, saving taxpayers approximately $1.4 million in manpower costs. While every member contributes to the success of our mission, these individuals went above and beyond in 2024, logging over 500 volunteer hours each. Their dedication to service is exemplary and is appreciated by the Agency and the community.

UNIT CITATION – Commander Agustin Rodriguez; Detective Sergeants George Hristakopoulos, Frank Gamarra, and Daniel Weaver; Sergeant Paul Kandour; Detective Corporal Seth Green; Master Detectives Darrell Butler, Austin Dalrymple, Kyle Gaddie, and Daniel Malta; Detectives First Class Adam Gossett and Kathryn Gordon; Deputies First Class Thomas Douglas, Robert Finn, and Dominic Quintieri; Detectives Lauren Broomfield, Maxwell Dorsey, Sarah Scalia, and Shannon Smith; Deputies Derek Logsdon, Abd Lulu, Austin Miller, and Jonathan Schmidt; Victim Advocate Deanna Uhl; Crime Scene Investigators Gabriella Massa, Savannah MacLellan, and Dori Weidler; and RTCC Specialist Taylor Cousin

On February 11, 2025, the FCSO School Resource Unit contacted the Major Case Unit regarding a sex offense involving a minor. The victim initially reported the incident to their counselor, revealing that they were being abused by a family member. Major Case Unit detectives, along with victim advocates, immediately mobilized and made contact with the victim. After hours of investigation, numerous successful controlled calls, and search warrant executions, the suspect was arrested and charged with multiple sexual battery and narcotics charges.

UNIT CITATION – Pam Andrews, Jan Bearce, Rick Craig, Mark Dyberg, Tomme Mayne, Kathy Romanac, Ken Seymour, and Jackie Terry

Seniors Vs. Crime is a volunteer group operating under the guidance of the Office of the Attorney General. They work tirelessly to assist the citizens of Flagler County, especially seniors, who have been affected by crimes. Although their official hours are designated for Thursdays, the Seniors vs Crimes team goes above and beyond, offering support and guidance whenever it is needed. Their genuine care for the citizens of Flagler County has made them a trusted resource, especially for seniors who often feel vulnerable. Their service is a true embodiment of volunteerism, showing an unwavering commitment to improving the lives of others.

UNIT CITATION – Commanders Jonathan Dopp and Jennifer Nawrocki; Sergeant Shane Meehan; Corporals Joseph Dailey and Arthur Erlandson; Master Deputies Nicholas Champion, Marcus Dawson, Nancy Malheiros, and Michael Spinelli; Detective First Class Diego Morales; Deputy First Class Thomas Douglas; Deputies Christopher Alecrim, Adam Bergman, Sam Cooper, Damaris Ferreiro, Sierra Held, Jake Moorehead, John Landi, Bobby Peters, Jada Stanford, and Jason Williams; Detective Stacy Kusek; Police Athletic League Coordinator Andrew Crowley; Fleet Coordinator Stefano Giannini; Explorers Lilian Copp, Michael Copp, Andrew Fair, Angelica Ferreiro, Gabrielle Jones, Kaitlynnann Libby, Eli Pascoe, Michael Pascoe Izzy Stanford, Estella Teague, Charlie Torres, Travis VanDuren- Reneau, and Blake Villatoro

On March 28 and 29, FCSO hosted the Explorer Delegates Event. This event brought together over 350 participants who were engaged in law enforcement scenarios, realistic, educational, and impactful training experiences and teamwork. Their commitment to creating and ensuring a safe and engaging learning environment was instrumental in preparing these future law enforcement leaders. Every detail reflected their hard work and expertise. This event would not have been possible without their collective efforts.

CERTIFICATE OF COMMENDATION – Deputy First Class Thomas Douglas and Deputy Dennis King

On January 31, Deputy Dennis King was notified of a social media post involving a student in possession of a firearm at Matanzas High School. During the investigation, Deputy King was able to identify the possible suspect as an Indian Trails Middle School student. Deputy King contacted Deputy First Class Thomas Douglas, who is the School Resource Deputy at ITMS. Through collaborative investigative work, the investigation led to the arrest of a 14-year-old student.

CERTIFICATE OF COMMENDATION – Communications Supervisor Heather Robinson

On January 4, Communications Supervisor Heather Robinson answered a 911 call from a male advising that his wife was having a baby in the vehicle. Within seconds, the caller explained that the baby was in the process of being delivered and that he could see the head. Communications Supervisor Robinson advised the caller to pull over so that she could assist him with delivering the baby while the ambulance was responding to them. As the baby was being delivered, Communications Supervisor Robinson was able to keep the caller calm enough to be able to follow her instructions and ensure that the baby was crying and breathing properly and on how to handle the umbilical cord and ensure that the baby was kept warm until units arrived on the scene. Communications Specialist Robinson’s composure and calmness were instrumental in keeping the new parents reassured during the high-stress situation. She not only guided them through the delivery but also monitored the baby’s condition, ensuring both safety and support until a deputy arrived on the scene.

CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION – Corporal Jay Rodenborn

On January 10, deputies from the Civil Process/Warrant Unit went to serve a court-ordered ex parte order for Involuntary Examination. The petitioner stated that the subject of the ex-parte was getting aggressive and violent. The subject, diagnosed with mental health disorders, had a history of Baker Act and battery on a law enforcement officer. Upon arriving at the subject’s residence, the subject was inside a bedroom behind a closed door. Corporal Jay Rodenborn made contact with the subject through the door. It was apparent that the subject was having a mental episode. Due to Corporal Rodenborn’s continued communication, the subject stated we could open the door. Corporal Rodenborn stayed engaged with the subject and even though they were having a mental episode, he was able to talk the subject into getting into the police car and going to Stewart Marchman and voluntarily went into the facility. With Corporal Rodenborn’s effective communication, he was able to defuse a volatile situation.

COMMUNITY SERVICE CERTIFICATE – Volunteer David Mazzone

David Mazzone has demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment as a volunteer with the FCSO Purchasing Unit since 2023. In 2024 alone, he contributed an impressive 688 hours of service, a testament to his strong work ethic and passion for supporting the community. His willingness to invest significant time and effort in ensuring the smooth operation of the Purchasing Unit has made a meaningful impact, helping to streamline processes and contribute to the efficient use of resources within the department. David’s consistency and reliability in fulfilling his volunteer responsibilities reflect his deep sense of civic duty.

EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH

January – Communications Supervisor Heather Robinson

February – Deputy Dennis King

March – Deputy Kyle Somers

YEARS OF SERVICE

5 years – Chief Daniel Engert, Detective First Class Kathryn Gordon, Deputy First Class Thomas Douglas, Deputy First Class Benjamin Stamps, Deputy Michael Anderson, Deputy Anthony Cuthbert, Detention Deputy Michael Bolling

10 years – Corporal Andrew Cangialosi, Corporal James Crosbee, Deputy Christopher Alecrim, Deputy Aaron Beausoleil, Deputy Shayna Favorite, Deputy Carl Parker, Communications Specialist First Class Danielle Brown

15 years – Detention Sergeant Nathan Hockenberry, Deputy Jason Prather, Civil Clerk Karen Long

40 years — Records Supervisor Wendee Hartman

OTHER AWARDS

Dive Service Award – Sergeant Jon Reckenwald

PRESIDENT’S VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARDS

Sheriff Staly presented 64 members of the FCSO Citizen Observer Patrol with the 2025 President’s Volunteer Service Award. The PVSA program, established in 2003 by President George W. Bush and continued by every president since honors individuals who have dedicated their time volunteering to make a positive impact in their communities. The award is presented by the AmeriCorps in partnership with Points of Light. Award levels are based on hours of volunteer service.

The Gold Award was presented to 17 members of the COP Unit who recorded over 500 hours of documented volunteer service in 2024. This includes:

Richard Bellebuono – 500 hours
Roberson Brown Jr – 3,337 hours
Jill Dempsey – 957 hours
Marc Friedman – 548 hours
Robert Millett – 1,715 hours
Deborah Morman – 895 hours
Carlos Nunez – 1,284 hours
Mark Price – 779 hours
Lawrance Pulos – 531 hours
Ronald Ragsdale – 603 hours
Kevin Riebsam – 1,010 hours
Peter Sarni – 551 hours
William Schuyler – 845 hours
Thomas Semon – 521 hours
Arthur Emery Tyler – 510 hours
Edward Walsh – 555 hours
James Zimmerman – 527 hours

The Silver Award was presented to 21 members of the COP Unit who recorded between 250 and 499 hours of documented volunteer service in 2024. This includes:

Rothar Boswell – 271 hours
Thomas Buckel – 403 hours
Joseph Camit – 283 hours
Anthony Carcich – 400 hours
Nancy Del Riego – 303 hours
Teal Gau – 262 hours
William Goodhue – 323 hours
April Healey – 342 hours
Adam Lange – 256 hours
Gary Masten – 343 hours
Linda McDowell – 339 hours
Lisa Christine Mitchell – 355 hours
Mary Mollica – 403 hours
Jonathan Norris – 289 hours
Jay Ogden – 297 hours
Carol Oxford-Yard – 321 hours
Terry Potter – 273 hours
David M. Praisler – 263 hours
Brian Rosen – 450 hours
Dennis Shiverdecker – 312 hours
Vernell Williams – 342 hours

The Bronze Award was presented to 26 members of the COP Unit who recorded between 100 and 249 hours of documented volunteer service in 2024. This includes: