California Officer Shares Eye-Opening Differences After Transition to Florida

Screenshot of the video featuring Deputy HarrisPhoto byAG Moody Press Release

Attorney General Ashley Moody is recognizing a Clay County Sheriff’s deputy who moved from California to answer the call to Be A Florida Hero. Deputy Colton Harris tells his story in the seventh installment of Attorney General Moody’s Thin Line Tribute: Sunshine Salute Series.

In a video interview, Deputy Harris, originally from Oakland, California, highlighted the stark difference in serving in Florida versus California. The deputy spoke about the lack of support for law enforcement in California and watching a criminal be released from jail hours after being arrested.

Attorney General Ashley Moody said, “In Florida, we back the blue. Law enforcement officers from other states know this and are moving here in droves. We are telling their stories through our Sunshine Salute Series. In our latest edition, we hear from Clay County Deputy Colton Harris, who fled chaos in California to serve in the most pro-law enforcement state in the nation—where we support the brave men and women who protect and serve.”

Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook said, “As a proud Florida Sheriff and 33 year law enforcement officer, I can personally attest to the pride and support the citizens of Florida show for our officers. I strongly encourage anyone interested in joining Florida’s law enforcement ranks to join now! We welcome you here to the Sunshine State.”

During the interview, Deputy Harris spoke about the harsh environment for law enforcement officers in California and the reasons for making the move to serve in Florida. Deputy Harris described how people constantly protested law enforcement and shared that he felt state leadership would not back the officers. The deputy confirmed that serving in Florida and being supported by leadership is a better fit for his family.

Since July 2022, nearly 5,000 recruits joined Florida’s law enforcement ranks, including more than 1,200 moving from out-of-state. Four hundred of these officers moved from California, Illinois and New York collectively.

Attorney General Moody launched the Be A Florida Hero initiative in 2021 to help recruit law enforcement officers to Florida. The interactive recruitment tool showcases career opportunities available at law enforcement agencies across the state. It also highlights new law enforcement benefits Attorney General Moody, Governor Ron DeSantis and Florida legislative leaders worked hard to pass into law—including a law enforcement bonus program and relocation grants.

To learn more about available benefits and incentives of joining Florida’s law enforcement ranks, visit BeAFloridaHero.com.

Attorney General Moody launched Thin Line Tribute in 2021 to recognize the daily efforts of front-line officers who work to protect Floridians. Thin Line Tribute gives law enforcement officers the recognition they greatly deserve but may not always receive.

In 2023, Attorney General Moody started the Sunshine Salute Series during National Police Week by welcoming 30 new recruits receiving Florida law enforcement credentials at St. Petersburg College’s Southeastern Public Safety Institute. The Sunshine Salute expands upon Attorney General Moody’s Thin Line Tribute program.

Watch the full video interview here.