Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony says his agency is stepping up efforts to redefine public safety through proactive programs that emphasize trust, prevention, and community partnerships.
In the October update, BSO spotlighted its Park, Walk and Talk program, which encourages deputies to step out of their patrol cars and engage directly with residents. Last year, deputies logged more than 40,000 of these face-to-face conversations across Broward County. Sheriff Tony said the initiative allows law enforcement to “listen to concerns, learn about issues that matter most, and build the trust that allows us to work together to solve problems.”
The sheriff’s office also pointed to other neighborhood-based efforts, including the While You Were Sleeping program, where deputies patrol neighborhoods overnight and leave notices for homeowners if they spot security risks such as unlocked cars or open garage doors. For residents traveling out of town, BSO’s Vacation Home Watch program ensures regular checks on homes and reports of any unusual activity.
Beyond patrols, BSO’s Community/Neighborhood Events & Logistics Unit hosts Shred-A-Thons and Operation Medicine Cabinet to help residents safely dispose of sensitive documents and unused prescription drugs. To date, officials say more than 113,000 pounds of documents have been destroyed and over 1,000 pounds of medication collected, targeting crimes like identity theft and substance abuse.
BSO also invests in prevention through its Law Enforcement Trust Fund (LETF). Last year, the agency awarded more than $1.12 million to over 100 nonprofit organizations, supporting youth mentorship, services for vulnerable populations, and other programs designed to reduce risks before crime occurs.
“Our commitment to public safety goes far beyond daily patrols,” Tony said. “By redirecting resources into prevention and community partnerships, we are not only strengthening public safety today but also creating lasting, positive change for the future of Broward County.”
