The squad received this award and recognition because of their exceptional work during Hurricane Ian. A Squad was on duty on September 28th, and September 29th, 2022 when Okeechobee was in the outer bands of the massive storm.

 

As soon as the winds had slowed to safe speeds, A squad went to work. They went on patrol, and the shift worked as a cohesive unit. They canvassed the the entire county for downed power lines, trees on the roadways, and calls for service involving fires started by transformers. There were multiple traffic signals on the ground which were removed from the roadways by Deputies. The squad radioed all downed power lines to Dispatch to be logged and to keep the public safe. These same Deputies used their personal chainsaws and ropes to remove numerous large trees which had completely shut down many of the roads throughout the county. A squad was able to complete these tasks while still answering calls for service from the public, and battling the continuing wind and rain.

 

By the time sunrise came, the Deputies has cleared the majority of the roadways, allowing the public to access needed supplies and services.

 

These deputies set the standard for protecting the public, and represented Okeechobee County Sheriffs Office in the highest level. Thank you to these unsung heroes.

 

Pictured left to right are: Captain Robert Coleman, Deputy David Ramos, Captain Shannon Peterson, Deputy Misei Esquivel, Deputy Dylan Abdequader, Corporal. (now Sergeant) Steve Pollock, K-9 Deputy Karson Reno, Deputy Noah Wenrick, K-9 Deputy Carl Jones, Deputy Daniel Franklin, Deputy Gabriel Chavez, Sergeant Bryan Lowe, and Sheriff Noel Stephen.