Panama City Beach has a record for the criminal behavior that is ongoing during spring break; because of the heightened illegal activities during this time, Bay County Sheriff Frank McKeithen requested additional law enforcement from the Florida Sheriff’s Task Force across the state of Florida to help enforce the law during spring break.
Madison County Sheriff Ben Stewart responded, sending seven officers, two patrol canines, two interceptor explorers, three F-150 4WD trucks and the Sheriff’s Office “off road” police equipped Polaris Ranger, during the first week of the Panama City spring break period.
This provided assistance was, according to Sheriff Stewart, an opportunity to express the MCSO’s gratitude towards the Bay County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) for their support during the floods of 2009 in Madison County; the BCSO provided tremendous aid during that time.
The additional manpower and equipment proved profitable, as Sheriff McKeithen put forth a letter of appreciation towards MCSO and, in particular, the seven officers from MCSO who provided their aid during spring break.
Sheriff McKeithen further referenced how valuable an asset the officers were in helping to achieve a calm presence on Panama City Beach and their willingness to serve in any capacity and, in doing so, represented the Madison County Sheriff’s Office with great pride and honor.