By-Line: Courtney Sebastianelli, PIO, FCSO

On May 23, the Florida Sheriffs Association honored 39 graduates from the prestigious Florida Sheriffs Association’s (FSA) Commanders Academy. Among the graduates was Flagler County Sheriff’s Office (FCSO) Special Operations Commander Jonathan Dopp.

The Commanders Academy is an exceptionally informative and educational experience that is vital for public safety leaders of the next generation. The academy has become recognized as the premier course of executive study for mid-to-upper-level Florida Sheriff’s Office leaders.

Leaders throughout Florida Sheriffs’ Offices participated in a variety of curriculums focusing on leadership, ethics, discipline, and additional subject matter areas related to upper-level leadership in law enforcement. The remaining curriculum is adjusted according to emerging trends and issues that have an impact on Florida Sheriffs Office’s and recent high-profile events.

Three uniformed law enforcement officers stand in front of a backdrop with gold star emblems One holds a certificate, another poses in the center, and a third stands to the right The Florida state flag is partially visible

“I’m proud of Commander Jonathan Dopp for his dedication to our community and successful completion of the Florida Sheriffs Association Commanders Academy,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “The class continues to maintain a standard of excellence the FCSO is proud to be part of.”

Commander Dopp joined the FCSO in 2006 as a patrol deputy. In 2014, he transferred to the Investigative Services Division as a Detective. In 2018, he transferred to the Problem Area Crime Enforcement Unit as a Sergeant. In 2021, he was promoted to Commander of the Special Operations Unit, and in 2024, he received the Specialty Service Award. Commander Dopp has received many commendations along with numerous awards and certificates of merit.

A large group of uniformed law enforcement officers and a few individuals in formal attire stand in rows outside a building with glass doors and the Florida Sheriffs Association sign

In addition to completing this two-week training course, Commanders Academy Class 16 also raised $117,870 for the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches. This generous donation will help support the mission of the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranches in preventing delinquency and to develop lawful, resilient, and productive citizens.