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FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass Highlights 2024 Accomplishments
For Immediate Release
January 15, 2025
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) highlights some of its most significant 2024 accomplishments.
FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass said, “I want to thank our members for FDLE’s numerous accomplishments in 2024, and to Governor DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet for their leadership and support during this busy year. FDLE agents deployed to help secure the southern border, secured Jewish schools from threats of violence, and facilitated the investigation into the attempted assassination of President-elect Trump. Our lab members processed thousands of pieces of evidence, helping agencies solve hundreds of cases. Members across the state worked nights, weekends and holidays to keep Florida’s citizens safe. And I am proud of our continued success in spearheading new initiatives and collaborating with our partners to safeguard all of Florida’s communities.”
Helping to Secure the Southern Border
Operation Lone Star
FDLE members deployed to assist Texas law enforcement agencies investigating criminal activity along the border associated with human trafficking and drug and weapons smuggling. Agents have assisted the Texas Department of Public Safety in arresting violent felons and human smugglers and seizing illicit drugs and illegal firearms.
Operation Vigilant Sentry
FDLE is coordinating Florida’s continued law enforcement response in the Florida Keys, helping gather and provide intelligence and work investigations. FDLE is providing aviation assets to assist with surveillance.
Highway Interdictions
FDLE, along with Florida Highway Patrol, conducted six criminal interdictions across Florida with local law enforcement agencies focusing on identifying and stopping illegal activity, including drug trafficking, human smuggling and organized crime.
Securing Florida Elections
In 2024, FDLE ensured that Florida’s presidential, general and state elections were safe, secure and fair. Throughout the state, FDLE organized and had a presence at multiple election security command centers, monitored for potential crimes and threats, and disseminated election-related information in live time to local, state and federal partners.
In January, an FDLE investigation led to the arrest of a paid petition circulator for submitting more than 150 invalid petitions in support of the marijuana amendment.
In February, FDLE inspectors arrested a paid petition circulator for petition fraud and an accomplice was arrested in May on an FDLE warrant by Nebraska officers. The suspects submitted 133 invalid constitutional amendment petitions in multiple counties for the abortion initiative.
In March, a paid petition circulator was arrested for criminal use of personal identification information on the abortion initiative. FDLE also arrested a paid gaming petition circulator for submitting fraudulent petitions.
In April, FDLE arrested a six-time convicted felon and non-citizen on three counts of illegal voting crimes. Also in April, a paid petition circulator was arrested on 20 counts of criminal use of personal identification after submitting more than 700 invalid petitions following an FDLE investigation.
In May, a suspect was arrested in Broward County on FDLE’s warrant for criminal use of a deceased individual’s information. The suspect submitted more than 3,700 invalid signatures at election’s offices throughout Florida.
In June, a paid petition circulator was arrested after submitting 314 invalid petitions throughout the state.
In August, a Georgia resident was arrested on an FDLE warrant for criminal use of personal identification information after submitting dozens of invalid petitions in support of the marijuana amendment.
Operation Kessel Run
In March, FDLE led Operation Kessel Run, a multi-agency investigation into child predators in Northwest Florida. Twelve suspects were arrested and charged with seducing a minor to engage in sexual conduct, traveling to meet a minor for sexual activity and use of a two-way communication device to facilitate a felony. An additional suspect was arrested in April as a result of the investigation.
Operation Seminole Saber
In April 2024, more than two dozen FDLE agents and analysts participated in the U.S. Marshal’s Operation Seminole Saber to identify and locate missing children in West Central Florida. The operation recovered 27 of Tampa Bay’s endangered children.
Bringing Violent Criminals to Justice
Attempted Assassination
At the direction of Governor DeSantis, FDLE, Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Office of Statewide Prosecution and the Florida Highway Patrol led Florida’s multi-agency investigation into the attempted assassination of President-elect Trump, ultimately resulting in the suspect’s arrest for attempted felony murder.
Hard Rock Casino Explosive Devices Arrest
FDLE arrested a Tampa man after explosive devices were found inside restrooms at the Hard Rock Casino in Tampa. After investigating several leads, agents identified the suspect as an unknown male driving a white Ford Explorer. Interviews, surveillance and analytical work led agents to apprehending the suspect.
Leading Florida’s Domestic Security Efforts
FDLE’s Office of Statewide Intelligence and members working in the Florida Fusion Center work 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year providing vital awareness and emergency management information that protects Floridians and the nation from crimes and terrorist activity. In 2024, analysts reviewed 6,584 suspicious activity reports (SARs), elevating more than 1,400 SARs as potential criminal intelligence and/or domestic security threats.
FDLE, in partnership with the co-chairing sheriffs and police chiefs, held Regional Domestic Security Task Force (RDSTF) tabletop exercises in each of the seven regions in 2024. Additionally, two full scale exercises were conducted. The RDSTF is the foundation of Florida’s domestic security structure ensuring a safer Florida. Each of the RDSTF includes first responders fire/rescue, emergency management, public health and hospitals, law enforcement and emergency management professionals. The task forces partner with schools, businesses and private industries.
Combating Drug Trafficking
State Assistance for Fentanyl Eradication (SAFE) Initiative
FDLE administers the program which provides money for local law enforcement agencies to be used in fentanyl and drug trafficking investigations. FDLE also partners with agencies to conduct the operations. To date, more than 125 SAFE cases have been investigated among 77 agencies. Together, FDLE and local agencies made more than 1,175 arrests in multiple counties including Polk, Orange, Seminole, Palm Beach, Lee, Santa Rosa, Escambia, Okaloosa, Hillsborough, Pinellas and Miami-Dade. Additional cases are ongoing. SAFE investigations have resulted in law enforcement seizing more than: 290 pounds of fentanyl, 58,000 fentanyl pills, 285 pounds of cocaine, 275 pounds of methamphetamine, $2.9 million in currency, 375 firearms, and more than 50 vehicles.
The SAFE initiative launched in 2023, and drug deaths reported by the medical examiners saw a seven percent decrease in the interim 2023 Drugs Identified in Deceased Persons report FDLE published in July 2024.
Additional Drug Trafficking Cases
In March, FDLE, with assistance from the Hardee and Polk County sheriff’s offices, arrested a Wauchula man for trafficking fentanyl. Agents and investigators found approximately 20,000 fentanyl pills packed inside a microwave that had been shipped from California. An additional 2,000 fentanyl pills, an AR-15 rifle, $16,000 in cash, ammunition and two handguns were located in the suspect’s storage unit.
In October, FDLE arrested a Pensacola doctor for murder, manslaughter and racketeering after a multi-year investigation into an illegal drug ring. The doctor was found to have been running a pill mill out of her Gulf Breeze physician’s office. Eleven additional suspects were charged with crimes including racketeering and trafficking.
Stopping Human Trafficking
Operation Formula One
In April and May, ahead of the Miami Grand Prix Formula One race in Miami Gardens, FDLE agents and analysts worked multiple operations on the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office (MDSAO) Human Trafficking Task Force. Operation Formula One resulted in 50 arrests connected to human trafficking. Additionally, two human trafficking victims were identified, rescued and provided with victim rehabilitation services.
Operation We Will Find You
In July 2024, FDLE, as part of the MDSAO Human Trafficking Task Force, announced Operation We Will Find You. The operation was a six-week nationwide operation resulting in the recovery of 200 missing children. Thirty-one recoveries were made in Miami-Dade County alone. Fifty-five endangered or missing children were found across the southern district of Florida.
Solving Crimes with Forensic Science
The FDLE Forensic Laboratory system is comprised of six regional laboratories, the FDLE DNA Investigative Support Database, and the Alcohol Testing Program, all of which are accredited by ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB). Accredited laboratory services include both testing and calibration which are performed in compliance with international standard ISO/IEC 17025:2017. FDLE’s forensics members also provide training to law enforcement. FDLE’s forensic services are free for law enforcement across the state.
In 2024, FDLE’s forensic scientists completed more than 64,100 cases across 10 disciplines, made more than 3,600 National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) notifications, and processed more than 1.3 million biometric identification system reviews.
By the Numbers:
Tracking and Monitoring Sexual Offenders
FDLE houses Florida’s Sex Offender Registry. In 2024, FDLE members added 3,425 new sex offenders and predators to the Sexual Offender and Predator website and disseminated more than 5,900 travel notifications to other states and territories.
In addition to maintaining the registry, FDLE Inspectors and agents investigate allegations of unregistered sex offenders living in Florida or sex offenders who move without updating their information.
Operation Thin Ice
FDLE agents worked with the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office on Operation Thin Ice, along with federal partners. The operation resulted in the arrest of 10 Wakulla County sex offenders/predators for failure to report information required during their mandated registrations.
Operation Catch Up
In March, FDLE, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and the Monticello Police Department verified the addresses of more than 50 registered offenders living in Jefferson County. Two sexual offenders and one sexual predator were arrested for non-compliance with Florida’s registration laws and criminal investigations were initiated on four absconded sex offenders.
Operation Safe Halloween
In September, FDLE launched Operation Safe Halloween visiting hundreds of sex offenders and predators to confirm they were following Florida’s registration laws. Operations were conducted in Franklin, Hardee and Lafayette counties resulting in nine arrests.
Operation Spooky Sweep
Six sex offenders were arrested during Operation Spooky Sweep just before Halloween. FDLE partnered with the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office to visit more than 50 registered sex offenders and predators to ensure they were compliant with sex offender laws.
Operation Full Moon
In November, 27 sex offenders and predators were arrested in Operation Full Moon. During the three-day operation, physical contact was made with 70 registrants residing in Hillsborough County to verify they are following registration laws. FDLE partnered with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Department of Corrections.
Operation Broken Crayon
Also in November, FDLE, the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office and Florida Department of Corrections arrested nine in Operation Broken Crayon after contact with 63 registered sex offenders and predators.
Thwarting Fraudsters
In February, FDLE arrested a Tallahassee woman for grand theft after she deposited stolen money orders totaling $23,915.88 into her personal account.
In April, following an FDLE deed fraud investigation, agents arrested two suspects for organized scheme to defraud. The suspects prepared fraudulent deeds to transfer properties to themselves without the knowledge of the legal owners, and then sold the properties and kept the profits. The scheme was carried out in multiple counties, including Hillsborough and Pasco. Estimated losses total to just under $900,000.
In April, FDLE identified 10 fraudulent Florida SunPass websites. Suspects overseas sent fraudulent text messages to citizens saying they owed a $3.95 charge from SunPass and were directed to a fake website to pay their bill. Within 24 hours of the search and seizure warrant, the fraudulent websites were shut down and information was provided to potential victims.
In July, FDLE arrested an absconded suspect for stealing more than $140,000 over a three-year period from a person over 65. He was charged with grand theft and criminal use of personal identification.
In August, FDLE arrested a Wauchula man for scheme to defraud after misappropriating more than $300,000 from Hardee High School.
In August, FDLE arrested the Fort Pierce city manager for bid tampering and official misconduct.
Dismantling Organized Retail Theft Rings
In February, following an FDLE investigation, six Georgia suspects were arrested for organized retail theft. The ring is accused of stealing nearly $90,000 worth of merchandise from big box retailers in Northeast Florida. Agents say the theft ring is responsible for more than 70 separate thefts over 18 months.
In March, FDLE arrested a Daytona Beach man for organized fraud and money laundering after a complex email scam designed to trick a Sebring company into wiring thousands of dollars into a fraudulent bank account. The suspect pretended he was a contractor of the business.
In March, five suspects were arrested following an FDLE organized retail theft investigation. The arrestees were charged with multiple felonies including organized scheme to defraud $50,000 or more and retail theft. The ring stole more than $55,000 from a home improvement retailer. Working with local law enforcement, FDLE identified 53 thefts incidents in 13 Florida counties.
Safeguarding Florida’s Faith Communities
FDLE was a leader in securing Jewish schools and congregations from threats of violence. Commissioner Glass worked with faith leaders, including Chief Chaplain Rabbi Mark Rosenberg, providing safety and security information to the Jewish community and to all of Florida’s faith-based communities.
Recouping Assets for Cybercrime Victims
FDLE established an FDLE Crypto Seizure Team to facilitate the seizure of digital currency in coordination with Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Cyber Fraud Enforcement Unit. To date, the team has seized more than $2.5 million in cryptocurrency. More than $200,000 from seven investigations has been returned to identified Florida victims.
Notably in 2024, FDLE worked with state and local agencies to recoup assets for victims. FDLE seized more than $10,000 in bitcoin after a cryptocurrency-based romance scam, with the money being returned to the victim. The Office of Financial Regulation investigated the case and asked FDLE for help in seizing the money. In another notable investigation, FDLE seized $15,000 for an Orlando victim after the money was stolen from her.
Investigating Cold Cases
FDLE agents investigate cold cases and routinely assist local agencies with cold case investigations. FDLE lab analysts also play a critical role in cold cases, identifying remaining evidence for testing and using updated technology to find new information and provide leads to investigators.
FDLE’s Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy Program is Florida’s go-to resource when it comes helping solve some of the state’s most challenging cold cases. FDLE’s forensic genetic genealogy services are free to law enforcement and the team helped crack notable cases in 2024. Those cases include helping the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office’s identify the suspect in their 24-year-old cold rape case, helping identify Dewey Fillingim who had been unidentified since the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office recovered his remains in 1989, and helping identify Evelyn Lois Horne Townsend who had been unidentified since the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office found her murdered in 1982.
FDLE’s Tallahassee Region houses the Big Bend Cold Case Task Force, working together with the Tallahassee Police Department, Leon County Sheriff’s Office and the State Attorney’s Office of the Second Judicial Circuit. The task force closed the Sept. 6, 1957 murder of 27-year-old Dorothy Thomas after positively identifying the suspect who had died in 2019. The task force also reviewed a 2017 homicide investigation in Gadsden County, and identified and arrested a 39-year-old suspect for armed robbery and felony murder.
Rapid DNA at Booking Stations
With state funding, 11 counties throughout Florida started a Rapid DNA Booking station program. FDLE received authority to operate from the FBI, and created procedures, training and implementation tools for the participating agencies. Hernando, Charlotte, Flagler and Martin counties have successfully implemented Rapid DNA. Baker, Clay and Nassau counties are in the final implementation stages.
Responding to Emergencies
Hurricane Responses
During the 2024 hurricane season, FDLE members helped Floridians recover from two major hurricanes, as well as a tropical storm, flash flooding and tornadoes. FDLE coordinated Florida’s law enforcement response at the State Emergency Operations Center. In addition, members deployed to North Carolina to help citizens after Hurricane Helene caused significant damage.
Florida Spring Break Operation
FDLE was part of a law enforcement surge to ensure law and order during spring break. FDLE deployed manpower and tactical assets to popular spring break destinations like Miami Beach, Daytona Beach and Panama City Beach.
Safeguarding Capitol Complex Visitors and Officials
FDLE’s Capitol Police serve as specially trained, highly effective security and law enforcement serving the Capitol Complex and Capitol Circle Office Center, ensuring that visitors and officials are safe on the grounds. In 2024, Capitol Police responded to 3,824 calls for service. Capitol Police provided around the clock security when the State Emergency Operations Center was activated for the hurricanes and provided around the clock security on election night.
In 2024, Capitol Police Officer Getavius Zachary and K-9 Hunter earned second place in explosives detection during the annual K9 Explosive and Drug Detection Seminar, coming in ahead of 22 teams from around the country.
Supporting Law Enforcement
Bulletproof Vests for Law Enforcement
In 2023, lawmakers authorized $2 million in funding for FDLE to purchase the bulletproof vests with priority given to fiscally constrained counties. Money came from the fees collected for processing criminal history checks for the purchase or transfer of a firearm. In 2023 and 2024, FDLE awarded more than 1,100 soft body armor vests to Florida law enforcement agencies. The vests are being used by law enforcement officers across 75 agencies throughout Florida.
Free Training for Law Enforcement
FDLE’s Sworn Training Unit offers high-liability training to law enforcement partners free of charge. The courses are developed and offered in FDLE’s continuing effort to provide quality tactical training for agencies in need throughout the country. In 2024, the Sworn Training Unit delivered 56 classes, training nearly 900 officers from external law enforcement agencies throughout Florida, as well as in Mississippi, Georgia and Virginia. The unit also helped Virginia officials create courses replicating those FDLE developed in Florida.
Officer Wellness
FDLE is focusing on the mental health of its members and law enforcement statewide. In 2024, FDLE hosted the first-ever free and confidential mental health seminars for law enforcement and corrections members who experienced trauma while on duty. FDLE also hosted the first-ever Law Enforcement Culture for Clinicians seminar that FDLE developed for mental health clinicians interested in providing mental health services to the law enforcement community. In late 2024, FDLE launched the Clinical Service Program for members and provides FDLE members, their families and retirees, access to the Cordico Wellness App.
Electronic Storage Device (ESD) K-9 Teams
FDLE’s ESD K-9 Teams work cases with law enforcement partners across the state. The ESD K-9 Teams deployed more than 80 times, working on investigations from crimes against children to fraud to missing persons investigations, where the teams helped find hidden devices in the most obscured places.
FDLE Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS)
Faster Firearm Eligibility Research
The Firearm Eligibility Bureau performs criminal history record checks on individuals to determine their eligibility to receive or purchase a firearm in Florida. This includes researching criminal court cases to locate dispositions and sentencing information to make a final decision about a person’s eligibility. By July 2024, members processed 6,873 research cases that were pending a final decision. This was achieved while simultaneously processing new research requests.
Security Officer Workshops
FDLE hosted more than 400 people at Local Agency Security Officer workshops in May. These interactive workshops focused on the most recent changes to the FBI CJIS Security Policy and the potential impact to agency compliance strategies.
Improved Criminal Justice Data Transparency Dashboard
In 2018, the Florida Legislature created Florida Statutes 900.05 and 943.6871, establishing a framework for expanded criminal justice data collection and sharing with the public. The Criminal Justice Data Transparency (CJDT) initiative aims to increase public visibility of criminal justice processes throughout the state and provide policymakers with the information they need to make informed policy decisions. FDLE developed an initial dashboard approach to display the data received from seven contributing bodies in 2020. In March of 2024, FDLE staff updated the dashboard to improve public access. At the same time, an information technology dashboard consultant was hired to work with FDLE staff to make additional improvements. These further changes allow individuals using the dashboard the increased ability to review the CJDT data as anticipated by the legislature. The new CJDT dashboard was published to the FDLE website on June 4, 2024.
Background Check Requests
Level 1 criminal history record checks are name-based or fingerprint-based and searched only against Florida’s criminal history file. Level 2 criminal history record checks are fingerprint-based and searched against Florida’s criminal history file as well as the national repository. Level 1 and 2 checks are performed for certain employees, volunteers and those seeking licensure in the State of Florida. In 2024, CJIS processed more than 1,484,100 Level I background checks and more than 1,610,400 Level II background checks.
Florida’s Transition to Incident Based Reporting for Crime Data
Florida, along with the rest of the nation, is transitioning from general criminal activity reporting to detailed criminal incident based reporting to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This complex national effort provides significantly improved insight into the details associated with crime. These details improve the ability of policy makers to respond to emerging crime trends. In Florida the transition is known as the Florida Incident Based Reporting System (FIBRS).
FIBRS requires changes in data systems in each of the law enforcement agencies in the state. To date, 203 Florida law enforcement agencies are successfully reporting, representing 66% of the state’s population. Most recently in 2024, 40 additional Florida law enforcement agencies joined FIBRS, representing another 9% of the state population.
FDLE continues to support the data submissions from the agencies that have converted to FIBRS and to work with the remaining law enforcement agencies in the state to help them make the conversion.
FDLE Criminal Justice Professionalism
The FDLE Criminal Justice Professionalism Program Division facilitates the competency and professional conduct of criminal justice officers through a partnership with criminal justice agencies. In 2024, Professionalism members delivered 51 non-high-liability training classes to 2,231 attendees, and nine analyst classes that have reached more than 350 Florida analysts. Professionalism members implemented the School Guardian Management System and developed a Lethality Assessment that was rolled out to all Florida law enforcement agencies.
In 2024, the Department of Education also awarded college credit for four FDLE Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute leadership programs, providing additional educational opportunities for law enforcement professionals.
Recruitment and Hiring
FDLE Special Agent Academy Recruitments Double
FDLE has doubled its recruitment and hiring over the last two years. In June 2024, FDLE graduated 40 special agents from the special agent academy. The agents were assigned to each of FDLE’s seven regions.
University-to-Workforce Initiatives
FDLE partnered with Edward Waters University and developed a forensic science program that creates graduates who are “bench ready” so they can immediately be hired to work in an FDLE crime lab upon graduation. FDLE is also assisting the University with security enhancements to their campus by providing technical assistance and identifying grant opportunities.
FDLE is working with the University of Central Florida and Valencia College to align their educational courses and internal training programs related to crime intelligence analysts and forensic disciplines to ensure graduates are fully prepared to begin their careers with FDLE.
For Further Information Contact:
FDLE Office of Public Information
Info@fdle.state.fl.us
January 15, 2025
TALLAHASSEE, Fla.– The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) highlights some of its most significant 2024 accomplishments.
FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass said, “I want to thank our members for FDLE’s numerous accomplishments in 2024, and to Governor DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet for their leadership and support during this busy year. FDLE agents deployed to help secure the southern border, secured Jewish schools from threats of violence, and facilitated the investigation into the attempted assassination of President-elect Trump. Our lab members processed thousands of pieces of evidence, helping agencies solve hundreds of cases. Members across the state worked nights, weekends and holidays to keep Florida’s citizens safe. And I am proud of our continued success in spearheading new initiatives and collaborating with our partners to safeguard all of Florida’s communities.”
Helping to Secure the Southern Border
Operation Lone Star
FDLE members deployed to assist Texas law enforcement agencies investigating criminal activity along the border associated with human trafficking and drug and weapons smuggling. Agents have assisted the Texas Department of Public Safety in arresting violent felons and human smugglers and seizing illicit drugs and illegal firearms.
Operation Vigilant Sentry
FDLE is coordinating Florida’s continued law enforcement response in the Florida Keys, helping gather and provide intelligence and work investigations. FDLE is providing aviation assets to assist with surveillance.
Highway Interdictions
FDLE, along with Florida Highway Patrol, conducted six criminal interdictions across Florida with local law enforcement agencies focusing on identifying and stopping illegal activity, including drug trafficking, human smuggling and organized crime.
Securing Florida Elections
In 2024, FDLE ensured that Florida’s presidential, general and state elections were safe, secure and fair. Throughout the state, FDLE organized and had a presence at multiple election security command centers, monitored for potential crimes and threats, and disseminated election-related information in live time to local, state and federal partners.
In January, an FDLE investigation led to the arrest of a paid petition circulator for submitting more than 150 invalid petitions in support of the marijuana amendment.
In February, FDLE inspectors arrested a paid petition circulator for petition fraud and an accomplice was arrested in May on an FDLE warrant by Nebraska officers. The suspects submitted 133 invalid constitutional amendment petitions in multiple counties for the abortion initiative.
In March, a paid petition circulator was arrested for criminal use of personal identification information on the abortion initiative. FDLE also arrested a paid gaming petition circulator for submitting fraudulent petitions.
In April, FDLE arrested a six-time convicted felon and non-citizen on three counts of illegal voting crimes. Also in April, a paid petition circulator was arrested on 20 counts of criminal use of personal identification after submitting more than 700 invalid petitions following an FDLE investigation.
In May, a suspect was arrested in Broward County on FDLE’s warrant for criminal use of a deceased individual’s information. The suspect submitted more than 3,700 invalid signatures at election’s offices throughout Florida.
In June, a paid petition circulator was arrested after submitting 314 invalid petitions throughout the state.
In August, a Georgia resident was arrested on an FDLE warrant for criminal use of personal identification information after submitting dozens of invalid petitions in support of the marijuana amendment.
Protecting Florida Families
FDLE’s Missing Endangered Persons Information Clearinghouse (MEPIC) members work 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year assisting law enforcement and families in locating missing persons by providing analytical services, collecting and disseminating relevant information. MEPIC engages the public in the search for missing persons through statewide alerts and shares safety publications that provide guidance on how to keep families safe. MEPIC Inspectors also provide training and assistance to law enforcement agencies on missing persons and crimes against children cases.
In 2024, MEPIC activated 404 state alerts with 399 missing persons recovered.
By the numbers:
- 9 AMBER Alerts, 9 recoveries
- 66 Missing Child Alerts, 64 recoveries
- 18 Enhanced Missing Child Alerts, 18 recoveries
- 121 state Purple Alerts, 119 recoveries
- 190 state Silver Alerts, 189 recoveries
Operation Kessel Run
In March, FDLE led Operation Kessel Run, a multi-agency investigation into child predators in Northwest Florida. Twelve suspects were arrested and charged with seducing a minor to engage in sexual conduct, traveling to meet a minor for sexual activity and use of a two-way communication device to facilitate a felony. An additional suspect was arrested in April as a result of the investigation.
Operation Seminole Saber
In April 2024, more than two dozen FDLE agents and analysts participated in the U.S. Marshal’s Operation Seminole Saber to identify and locate missing children in West Central Florida. The operation recovered 27 of Tampa Bay’s endangered children.
Bringing Violent Criminals to Justice
Attempted Assassination
At the direction of Governor DeSantis, FDLE, Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Office of Statewide Prosecution and the Florida Highway Patrol led Florida’s multi-agency investigation into the attempted assassination of President-elect Trump, ultimately resulting in the suspect’s arrest for attempted felony murder.
Hard Rock Casino Explosive Devices Arrest
FDLE arrested a Tampa man after explosive devices were found inside restrooms at the Hard Rock Casino in Tampa. After investigating several leads, agents identified the suspect as an unknown male driving a white Ford Explorer. Interviews, surveillance and analytical work led agents to apprehending the suspect.
Leading Florida’s Domestic Security Efforts
FDLE’s Office of Statewide Intelligence and members working in the Florida Fusion Center work 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year providing vital awareness and emergency management information that protects Floridians and the nation from crimes and terrorist activity. In 2024, analysts reviewed 6,584 suspicious activity reports (SARs), elevating more than 1,400 SARs as potential criminal intelligence and/or domestic security threats.
FDLE, in partnership with the co-chairing sheriffs and police chiefs, held Regional Domestic Security Task Force (RDSTF) tabletop exercises in each of the seven regions in 2024. Additionally, two full scale exercises were conducted. The RDSTF is the foundation of Florida’s domestic security structure ensuring a safer Florida. Each of the RDSTF includes first responders fire/rescue, emergency management, public health and hospitals, law enforcement and emergency management professionals. The task forces partner with schools, businesses and private industries.
Combating Drug Trafficking
State Assistance for Fentanyl Eradication (SAFE) Initiative
FDLE administers the program which provides money for local law enforcement agencies to be used in fentanyl and drug trafficking investigations. FDLE also partners with agencies to conduct the operations. To date, more than 125 SAFE cases have been investigated among 77 agencies. Together, FDLE and local agencies made more than 1,175 arrests in multiple counties including Polk, Orange, Seminole, Palm Beach, Lee, Santa Rosa, Escambia, Okaloosa, Hillsborough, Pinellas and Miami-Dade. Additional cases are ongoing. SAFE investigations have resulted in law enforcement seizing more than: 290 pounds of fentanyl, 58,000 fentanyl pills, 285 pounds of cocaine, 275 pounds of methamphetamine, $2.9 million in currency, 375 firearms, and more than 50 vehicles.
The SAFE initiative launched in 2023, and drug deaths reported by the medical examiners saw a seven percent decrease in the interim 2023 Drugs Identified in Deceased Persons report FDLE published in July 2024.
Additional Drug Trafficking Cases
In March, FDLE, with assistance from the Hardee and Polk County sheriff’s offices, arrested a Wauchula man for trafficking fentanyl. Agents and investigators found approximately 20,000 fentanyl pills packed inside a microwave that had been shipped from California. An additional 2,000 fentanyl pills, an AR-15 rifle, $16,000 in cash, ammunition and two handguns were located in the suspect’s storage unit.
In October, FDLE arrested a Pensacola doctor for murder, manslaughter and racketeering after a multi-year investigation into an illegal drug ring. The doctor was found to have been running a pill mill out of her Gulf Breeze physician’s office. Eleven additional suspects were charged with crimes including racketeering and trafficking.
Stopping Human Trafficking
Operation Formula One
In April and May, ahead of the Miami Grand Prix Formula One race in Miami Gardens, FDLE agents and analysts worked multiple operations on the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office (MDSAO) Human Trafficking Task Force. Operation Formula One resulted in 50 arrests connected to human trafficking. Additionally, two human trafficking victims were identified, rescued and provided with victim rehabilitation services.
Operation We Will Find You
In July 2024, FDLE, as part of the MDSAO Human Trafficking Task Force, announced Operation We Will Find You. The operation was a six-week nationwide operation resulting in the recovery of 200 missing children. Thirty-one recoveries were made in Miami-Dade County alone. Fifty-five endangered or missing children were found across the southern district of Florida.
Solving Crimes with Forensic Science
The FDLE Forensic Laboratory system is comprised of six regional laboratories, the FDLE DNA Investigative Support Database, and the Alcohol Testing Program, all of which are accredited by ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB). Accredited laboratory services include both testing and calibration which are performed in compliance with international standard ISO/IEC 17025:2017. FDLE’s forensics members also provide training to law enforcement. FDLE’s forensic services are free for law enforcement across the state.
In 2024, FDLE’s forensic scientists completed more than 64,100 cases across 10 disciplines, made more than 3,600 National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) notifications, and processed more than 1.3 million biometric identification system reviews.
By the Numbers:
- 12,389 Biology cases
- 305 Crime Scene cases
- 331 Digital Evidence cases
- 117 Forensic Document Examination cases
- 6,529 Firearms cases
- 94 Footwear and Tire cases
- 4,678 Friction Ridge (Latent Prints) cases
- 33,968 Seized Drugs cases
- 5,595 Toxicology cases
- 120 Trace Evidence Cases
- 65,802 DNA Investigative Support Database samples entered
- 4,317 DNA Investigative Support Database hits
- 27 Unidentified Human Remains cases solved since October 2023
- More than 580 breath alcohol testing instruments inspected
- More than 430 trainings provided to more than 11,447 attendees
Tracking and Monitoring Sexual Offenders
FDLE houses Florida’s Sex Offender Registry. In 2024, FDLE members added 3,425 new sex offenders and predators to the Sexual Offender and Predator website and disseminated more than 5,900 travel notifications to other states and territories.
In addition to maintaining the registry, FDLE Inspectors and agents investigate allegations of unregistered sex offenders living in Florida or sex offenders who move without updating their information.
Operation Thin Ice
FDLE agents worked with the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office on Operation Thin Ice, along with federal partners. The operation resulted in the arrest of 10 Wakulla County sex offenders/predators for failure to report information required during their mandated registrations.
Operation Catch Up
In March, FDLE, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and the Monticello Police Department verified the addresses of more than 50 registered offenders living in Jefferson County. Two sexual offenders and one sexual predator were arrested for non-compliance with Florida’s registration laws and criminal investigations were initiated on four absconded sex offenders.
Operation Safe Halloween
In September, FDLE launched Operation Safe Halloween visiting hundreds of sex offenders and predators to confirm they were following Florida’s registration laws. Operations were conducted in Franklin, Hardee and Lafayette counties resulting in nine arrests.
Operation Spooky Sweep
Six sex offenders were arrested during Operation Spooky Sweep just before Halloween. FDLE partnered with the Gadsden County Sheriff’s Office to visit more than 50 registered sex offenders and predators to ensure they were compliant with sex offender laws.
Operation Full Moon
In November, 27 sex offenders and predators were arrested in Operation Full Moon. During the three-day operation, physical contact was made with 70 registrants residing in Hillsborough County to verify they are following registration laws. FDLE partnered with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Department of Corrections.
Operation Broken Crayon
Also in November, FDLE, the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office and Florida Department of Corrections arrested nine in Operation Broken Crayon after contact with 63 registered sex offenders and predators.
Thwarting Fraudsters
In February, FDLE arrested a Tallahassee woman for grand theft after she deposited stolen money orders totaling $23,915.88 into her personal account.
In April, following an FDLE deed fraud investigation, agents arrested two suspects for organized scheme to defraud. The suspects prepared fraudulent deeds to transfer properties to themselves without the knowledge of the legal owners, and then sold the properties and kept the profits. The scheme was carried out in multiple counties, including Hillsborough and Pasco. Estimated losses total to just under $900,000.
In April, FDLE identified 10 fraudulent Florida SunPass websites. Suspects overseas sent fraudulent text messages to citizens saying they owed a $3.95 charge from SunPass and were directed to a fake website to pay their bill. Within 24 hours of the search and seizure warrant, the fraudulent websites were shut down and information was provided to potential victims.
In July, FDLE arrested an absconded suspect for stealing more than $140,000 over a three-year period from a person over 65. He was charged with grand theft and criminal use of personal identification.
In August, FDLE arrested a Wauchula man for scheme to defraud after misappropriating more than $300,000 from Hardee High School.
In August, FDLE arrested the Fort Pierce city manager for bid tampering and official misconduct.
Dismantling Organized Retail Theft Rings
In February, following an FDLE investigation, six Georgia suspects were arrested for organized retail theft. The ring is accused of stealing nearly $90,000 worth of merchandise from big box retailers in Northeast Florida. Agents say the theft ring is responsible for more than 70 separate thefts over 18 months.
In March, FDLE arrested a Daytona Beach man for organized fraud and money laundering after a complex email scam designed to trick a Sebring company into wiring thousands of dollars into a fraudulent bank account. The suspect pretended he was a contractor of the business.
In March, five suspects were arrested following an FDLE organized retail theft investigation. The arrestees were charged with multiple felonies including organized scheme to defraud $50,000 or more and retail theft. The ring stole more than $55,000 from a home improvement retailer. Working with local law enforcement, FDLE identified 53 thefts incidents in 13 Florida counties.
Safeguarding Florida’s Faith Communities
FDLE was a leader in securing Jewish schools and congregations from threats of violence. Commissioner Glass worked with faith leaders, including Chief Chaplain Rabbi Mark Rosenberg, providing safety and security information to the Jewish community and to all of Florida’s faith-based communities.
Recouping Assets for Cybercrime Victims
FDLE established an FDLE Crypto Seizure Team to facilitate the seizure of digital currency in coordination with Attorney General Ashley Moody’s Cyber Fraud Enforcement Unit. To date, the team has seized more than $2.5 million in cryptocurrency. More than $200,000 from seven investigations has been returned to identified Florida victims.
Notably in 2024, FDLE worked with state and local agencies to recoup assets for victims. FDLE seized more than $10,000 in bitcoin after a cryptocurrency-based romance scam, with the money being returned to the victim. The Office of Financial Regulation investigated the case and asked FDLE for help in seizing the money. In another notable investigation, FDLE seized $15,000 for an Orlando victim after the money was stolen from her.
Investigating Cold Cases
FDLE agents investigate cold cases and routinely assist local agencies with cold case investigations. FDLE lab analysts also play a critical role in cold cases, identifying remaining evidence for testing and using updated technology to find new information and provide leads to investigators.
FDLE’s Forensic Investigative Genetic Genealogy Program is Florida’s go-to resource when it comes helping solve some of the state’s most challenging cold cases. FDLE’s forensic genetic genealogy services are free to law enforcement and the team helped crack notable cases in 2024. Those cases include helping the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office’s identify the suspect in their 24-year-old cold rape case, helping identify Dewey Fillingim who had been unidentified since the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office recovered his remains in 1989, and helping identify Evelyn Lois Horne Townsend who had been unidentified since the Indian River County Sheriff’s Office found her murdered in 1982.
FDLE’s Tallahassee Region houses the Big Bend Cold Case Task Force, working together with the Tallahassee Police Department, Leon County Sheriff’s Office and the State Attorney’s Office of the Second Judicial Circuit. The task force closed the Sept. 6, 1957 murder of 27-year-old Dorothy Thomas after positively identifying the suspect who had died in 2019. The task force also reviewed a 2017 homicide investigation in Gadsden County, and identified and arrested a 39-year-old suspect for armed robbery and felony murder.
Rapid DNA at Booking Stations
With state funding, 11 counties throughout Florida started a Rapid DNA Booking station program. FDLE received authority to operate from the FBI, and created procedures, training and implementation tools for the participating agencies. Hernando, Charlotte, Flagler and Martin counties have successfully implemented Rapid DNA. Baker, Clay and Nassau counties are in the final implementation stages.
Responding to Emergencies
Hurricane Responses
During the 2024 hurricane season, FDLE members helped Floridians recover from two major hurricanes, as well as a tropical storm, flash flooding and tornadoes. FDLE coordinated Florida’s law enforcement response at the State Emergency Operations Center. In addition, members deployed to North Carolina to help citizens after Hurricane Helene caused significant damage.
Florida Spring Break Operation
FDLE was part of a law enforcement surge to ensure law and order during spring break. FDLE deployed manpower and tactical assets to popular spring break destinations like Miami Beach, Daytona Beach and Panama City Beach.
Safeguarding Capitol Complex Visitors and Officials
FDLE’s Capitol Police serve as specially trained, highly effective security and law enforcement serving the Capitol Complex and Capitol Circle Office Center, ensuring that visitors and officials are safe on the grounds. In 2024, Capitol Police responded to 3,824 calls for service. Capitol Police provided around the clock security when the State Emergency Operations Center was activated for the hurricanes and provided around the clock security on election night.
In 2024, Capitol Police Officer Getavius Zachary and K-9 Hunter earned second place in explosives detection during the annual K9 Explosive and Drug Detection Seminar, coming in ahead of 22 teams from around the country.
Supporting Law Enforcement
Bulletproof Vests for Law Enforcement
In 2023, lawmakers authorized $2 million in funding for FDLE to purchase the bulletproof vests with priority given to fiscally constrained counties. Money came from the fees collected for processing criminal history checks for the purchase or transfer of a firearm. In 2023 and 2024, FDLE awarded more than 1,100 soft body armor vests to Florida law enforcement agencies. The vests are being used by law enforcement officers across 75 agencies throughout Florida.
Free Training for Law Enforcement
FDLE’s Sworn Training Unit offers high-liability training to law enforcement partners free of charge. The courses are developed and offered in FDLE’s continuing effort to provide quality tactical training for agencies in need throughout the country. In 2024, the Sworn Training Unit delivered 56 classes, training nearly 900 officers from external law enforcement agencies throughout Florida, as well as in Mississippi, Georgia and Virginia. The unit also helped Virginia officials create courses replicating those FDLE developed in Florida.
Officer Wellness
FDLE is focusing on the mental health of its members and law enforcement statewide. In 2024, FDLE hosted the first-ever free and confidential mental health seminars for law enforcement and corrections members who experienced trauma while on duty. FDLE also hosted the first-ever Law Enforcement Culture for Clinicians seminar that FDLE developed for mental health clinicians interested in providing mental health services to the law enforcement community. In late 2024, FDLE launched the Clinical Service Program for members and provides FDLE members, their families and retirees, access to the Cordico Wellness App.
Electronic Storage Device (ESD) K-9 Teams
FDLE’s ESD K-9 Teams work cases with law enforcement partners across the state. The ESD K-9 Teams deployed more than 80 times, working on investigations from crimes against children to fraud to missing persons investigations, where the teams helped find hidden devices in the most obscured places.
FDLE Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS)
Faster Firearm Eligibility Research
The Firearm Eligibility Bureau performs criminal history record checks on individuals to determine their eligibility to receive or purchase a firearm in Florida. This includes researching criminal court cases to locate dispositions and sentencing information to make a final decision about a person’s eligibility. By July 2024, members processed 6,873 research cases that were pending a final decision. This was achieved while simultaneously processing new research requests.
Security Officer Workshops
FDLE hosted more than 400 people at Local Agency Security Officer workshops in May. These interactive workshops focused on the most recent changes to the FBI CJIS Security Policy and the potential impact to agency compliance strategies.
Improved Criminal Justice Data Transparency Dashboard
In 2018, the Florida Legislature created Florida Statutes 900.05 and 943.6871, establishing a framework for expanded criminal justice data collection and sharing with the public. The Criminal Justice Data Transparency (CJDT) initiative aims to increase public visibility of criminal justice processes throughout the state and provide policymakers with the information they need to make informed policy decisions. FDLE developed an initial dashboard approach to display the data received from seven contributing bodies in 2020. In March of 2024, FDLE staff updated the dashboard to improve public access. At the same time, an information technology dashboard consultant was hired to work with FDLE staff to make additional improvements. These further changes allow individuals using the dashboard the increased ability to review the CJDT data as anticipated by the legislature. The new CJDT dashboard was published to the FDLE website on June 4, 2024.
Background Check Requests
Level 1 criminal history record checks are name-based or fingerprint-based and searched only against Florida’s criminal history file. Level 2 criminal history record checks are fingerprint-based and searched against Florida’s criminal history file as well as the national repository. Level 1 and 2 checks are performed for certain employees, volunteers and those seeking licensure in the State of Florida. In 2024, CJIS processed more than 1,484,100 Level I background checks and more than 1,610,400 Level II background checks.
Florida’s Transition to Incident Based Reporting for Crime Data
Florida, along with the rest of the nation, is transitioning from general criminal activity reporting to detailed criminal incident based reporting to the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This complex national effort provides significantly improved insight into the details associated with crime. These details improve the ability of policy makers to respond to emerging crime trends. In Florida the transition is known as the Florida Incident Based Reporting System (FIBRS).
FIBRS requires changes in data systems in each of the law enforcement agencies in the state. To date, 203 Florida law enforcement agencies are successfully reporting, representing 66% of the state’s population. Most recently in 2024, 40 additional Florida law enforcement agencies joined FIBRS, representing another 9% of the state population.
FDLE continues to support the data submissions from the agencies that have converted to FIBRS and to work with the remaining law enforcement agencies in the state to help them make the conversion.
FDLE Criminal Justice Professionalism
The FDLE Criminal Justice Professionalism Program Division facilitates the competency and professional conduct of criminal justice officers through a partnership with criminal justice agencies. In 2024, Professionalism members delivered 51 non-high-liability training classes to 2,231 attendees, and nine analyst classes that have reached more than 350 Florida analysts. Professionalism members implemented the School Guardian Management System and developed a Lethality Assessment that was rolled out to all Florida law enforcement agencies.
In 2024, the Department of Education also awarded college credit for four FDLE Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute leadership programs, providing additional educational opportunities for law enforcement professionals.
Recruitment and Hiring
FDLE Special Agent Academy Recruitments Double
FDLE has doubled its recruitment and hiring over the last two years. In June 2024, FDLE graduated 40 special agents from the special agent academy. The agents were assigned to each of FDLE’s seven regions.
University-to-Workforce Initiatives
FDLE partnered with Edward Waters University and developed a forensic science program that creates graduates who are “bench ready” so they can immediately be hired to work in an FDLE crime lab upon graduation. FDLE is also assisting the University with security enhancements to their campus by providing technical assistance and identifying grant opportunities.
FDLE is working with the University of Central Florida and Valencia College to align their educational courses and internal training programs related to crime intelligence analysts and forensic disciplines to ensure graduates are fully prepared to begin their careers with FDLE.
For Further Information Contact:
FDLE Office of Public Information
Info@fdle.state.fl.us
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