LAND O’ LAKES, Fla. — In a move that underscores Governor Ron DeSantis’ commitment to strong, community‑focused public safety, the governor formally appointed Jeff Harrington as the permanent sheriff of Pasco County on Wednesday. Harrington, who has served the Pasco Sheriff’s Office for over 14 years and most recently acted as Sheriff Chris Nocco’s chief of staff, brings more than 30 years of law‑enforcement experience to the role.
Background and Transition
The appointment follows Sheriff Chris Nocco’s successful special election to Florida Senate District 21, where he captured about 57.7% of the vote against Democrat Jordan Hensley. Nocco’s resignation took effect at 11:59 p.m. Monday, prompting a court‑ordered temporary replacement. Chief Judge Shawn Crane of the 6th Judicial Circuit named Harrington interim sheriff late Monday night, and DeSantis confirmed the permanent selection the next day.
Experience and Qualifications
Harrington’s career spans more than three decades in law enforcement, including a tenure as a deputy, detective, and senior leader within the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. His most recent position as chief of staff gave him direct oversight of daily operations, budgeting, and community‑engagement initiatives. Colleagues describe him as a steady, principled leader who values the partnership between law‑enforcement and the families they protect.
Governor’s Rationale
Governor DeSantis highlighted the importance of continuity and experienced leadership for Pasco County’s public‑safety mission. “Jeff Harrington’s deep roots in our community and his proven record of service make him the right choice to lead the Pasco Sheriff’s Office forward,” DeSantis said in a statement. “His appointment ensures that our law‑enforcement agencies remain focused on protecting families, upholding the Constitution, and supporting the values that make Florida strong.”
Community Response
The Pasco Sheriff’s Office issued a statement expressing enthusiasm for the governor’s decision, noting that the agency is “pleased to announce the permanent selection” of Harrington. Local leaders and community groups have also welcomed the appointment, emphasizing the need for stable leadership as the county continues to address growth, traffic safety, and emerging public‑safety challenges.
What Lies Ahead
As permanent sheriff, Harrington will oversee a department of roughly 300 sworn officers and civilian staff, responsible for law‑enforcement across Pasco’s 2,300 square miles. Key priorities outlined by the sheriff’s office include expanding community‑policing programs, enhancing emergency‑response capabilities, and maintaining a transparent relationship with residents. Harrington’s tenure will also coincide with ongoing statewide initiatives championed by the DeSantis administration, such as bolstering support for traditional families and safeguarding individual liberty through robust public‑safety policies.
Looking Forward
With the appointment now official, Pasco County residents can expect a seamless transition and continued focus on protecting neighborhoods, schools, and businesses. Sheriff Harrington’s leadership is poised to reinforce the county’s commitment to law‑and‑order while honoring the community’s core values of faith, family, and freedom.
Original reporting: Tampa Free Press — read the source article.
