More than 170 guests gathered at Hammock Beach Resort on March 21, 2026, for the annual Sheriff’s Gala, raising over $70,000 to support the Flagler Sheriff’s Employee Assistance Trust — a nonprofit that provides confidential financial help to Flagler County Sheriff’s Office employees and their families during times of unexpected hardship.
A Night of Recognition and Celebration
The black-tie event featured a surf and turf dinner, live entertainment by Soul Fire, a raffle, a live auction, and a Green Roof Inn-inspired specialty beverage. The evening’s highlight was Sheriff Rick Staly presenting FCSO’s 2025 annual awards, honoring standout employees, a volunteer, and a community member.
Deputy Kyle Manka, who has served in the Community Policing Division since 2020, was named Law Enforcement Deputy Sheriff of the Year. Master Detention Deputy Justine Crego, a Sheriff Perry Hall Inmate Detention Facility deputy who has been with FCSO since 2016, received the Detention Deputy Sheriff of the Year award. Staff accountant Nikki Smith, a member of the Business Services Section specializing in payroll and grants since 2021, was honored as Professional Support Staff of the Year. Citizen Observer Patrol Sergeant Thomas Semon, who has volunteered with FCSO’s C.O.P. Unit since 2019, was named Volunteer of the Year.
Cody Clark received the Citizen of the Year award for his direct role in helping deputies make two arrests and locate a missing juvenile who had been kidnapped in December 2025.
Sheriff Staly reflected on the significance of the evening. “It’s a privilege to be able to recognize the men and women of our agency and those in the community who went above and beyond in their service to Flagler County during the past year,” Staly said. “It’s even better to be able to honor them at an event like this, made possible by so many individuals and businesses in our community who support and appreciate our team.”
About FSEAT
The Flagler Sheriff’s Employee Assistance Trust is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by Sheriff Staly in 2017. The organization provides confidential assistance to FCSO employees facing personal crises, supports families of fallen or critically injured deputies, and recognizes Flagler County deputies killed in the line of duty. The Sheriff’s Gala is FSEAT’s only annual fundraiser, though donations are accepted throughout the year.
“FSEAT is there to serve those who serve our community, and the Sheriff’s Gala allows us to do that,” Staly said. “I want to thank everyone who attended or sponsored this event for their generous support. I also want to thank the FSEAT board of directors and amazing team of volunteers for their hard work putting on another great event. This was certainly a night to remember!”
The date for the 2027 Sheriff’s Gala has not yet been announced. To make a tax-deductible donation to FSEAT, visit fseat.org.
