Franklin County Sheriff's Office, A.J. "Tony" Smith, Sheriff

09/06/2026

Look out, Franklin County, we’ve got another graduate from the Pat Thomas Law Enforcement Academy! 👮🏻‍♂️ Please join us in welcoming Deputy King. ⭐️

Our very own Sheriff A.J. "Tony" Smith had the honor of speaking to the graduating class, and his message was simple: treat people how you want to be treated, have passion for the work so it never feels like a job, and always make time for your family, both the one at home and the one you now wear a badge alongside. He also reminded them that "it's not my job" isn't something they get to say anymore. From today, it's their job to serve others.

Congratulations, Deputy King—we can't wait to see everything you do for this agency and your community! 👏

09/05/2026

While you’re enjoying the beach this Labor Day Weekend, take a moment to notice the signs at the beginning and end of the boardwalks!

Our beaches have signs designed to help you quickly identify exactly where you are. These signs include a specific location identifier that can be especially important during an emergency.

Whether it’s a medical emergency or a swimmer in distress, knowing your location can help dispatchers quickly pinpoint where you are and guide first responders directly to you. You never know when that information could make a difference.

If you see something, say something.
☎️Non-emergency 850-670-8500
🚨Emergency 911

09/04/2026

09/02/2026

For 28 years, Chief Deputy Coulter has been there for our community, protecting and serving. ⭐️

Through hurricanes, search and rescues, holidays, festivals, busy nights, long days, and everything in between, Chief Deputy Coulter has been a constant presence for the Franklin County community and the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office. There has never been a job too big, a task too difficult, or a problem he couldn’t find a way to solve.

Over the years, Chief Deputy Coulter has had a hand in just about every part of our agency. But his impact goes beyond the badge. From being part of the cook team and carving pumpkins at our fall festival, to handing out Christmas gifts at Jingle at the Jail, being part of the legendary Ice Cream Patrol, and being part of countless parades and community events, he has helped make FCSO what it is.

Chief Deputy Coulter, we are incredibly grateful for the 28 years you gave to this community and for the countless ways you made our agency better. You brought your best to every challenge, every call, and every person you encountered, and it has been an honor to serve alongside you. While we will certainly miss having you here, we hope retirement gives you the chance to slow down, enjoy life, and begin a well-deserved new chapter!

Congratulations on your retirement, and thank you for always being there.

09/01/2026

Don’t Flock with Franklin 🚨🎥 - September 1, 2026

This morning, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office discovered that our Flock Cameras have continued to take pictures despite the fact that we have deactivated our account.

Sheriff Smith has taken matters into his own hands by placing bags over the cameras and disconnecting the power source.

08/31/2026

Sheriff Smith clarifies the update on the Flock LPR cameras. FCSO access has been turned off today. The 17 cameras leased by FCSO have been cancelled. Although they were a good tool, FCSO will no longer be using them, and we will continue chasing criminals and solving crime.

08/31/2026

*Due to technical issues, the live cut off. Below is the full statement. We appreciate Mr. Grimm for sharing his opinion.*

Franklin County Sheriff’s Office Announces Discontinuation of License Plate Reader Program
Franklin County, Florida — August 31, 2026

The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office announces that it will no longer be using license plate reader cameras as part of its law enforcement operations.

This decision follows the Florida Department of Transportation’s revocation of access to state right-of-way locations for the placement and operation of these cameras. As a result, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office will discontinue its use of license plate reader technology.

Sheriff A.J. “Tony” Smith said the decision also reflects the Sheriff’s Office’s commitment to maintaining public trust and ensuring that law enforcement practices are consistent with the needs and expectations of the citizens of Franklin County.

“While technology can provide law enforcement with useful investigative tools, we must always consider privacy, public trust, and the policies governing where and how that technology is deployed,” said Sheriff Smith. “With the Department of Transportation revoking access to state right-of-way locations for these cameras, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office will move forward without the use of license plate readers.”
The Sheriff’s Office will continue to utilize traditional and proven law enforcement practices, including proactive patrol, deputies’ observations, investigative work, community partnerships, and cooperation with other law enforcement agencies.

“Our mission has not changed,” Sheriff Smith said. “We will continue to protect and serve the people of Franklin County, investigate crimes, respond when our citizens need us, and work to keep our communities safe.”

The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office thanks the citizens of Franklin County for their continued support and remains committed to professional, accountable, and community-focused law enforcement.

Sheriff A.J. “Tony” Smith
Franklin County Sheriff’s Office

08/30/2026

Don’t forget your purpose. Work hard. Keep your word.

Sheriff A.J. “Tony” Smith is proud to answer the call and serve you!

08/29/2026

This month, we are celebrating the ones who answer the calls for help, respond when their community is in need, maintain order within our correctional facility, and investigate to bring justice to victims. Join us in recognizing our Franklin County Sheriff’s Office employees celebrating work anniversaries this month! 👏

🌟 Lt. James - 17 years at FCSO
🌟 Reva Sapp - 14 years at FCSO
🌟 Sgt. Gordon - 8 years at FCSO
🌟 C.D. Harris - 6 years at FCSO
🌟 Deputy Coatney - 6 years at FCSO
🌟 Kirsten Martina - 2 years at FCSO

We are grateful for the experience and work ethic they bring to the table. Congratulations on your work anniversaries and dedication to public service, we appreciate each one of you!

08/28/2026

DRUG OFFENDER ARRESTS

🚨 William Franklin Stanley Jr, 41, has been charged with possession of paraphernalia, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of a weapon or ammo by a convicted Florida felon. Stanley Jr. has 4 arrests and has served prison time.

🚨 Carlos A Morris, 54, has been charged with possession of co***ne and resisting an officer-obstruction without violence. Morris has 29 arrests and has served prison time.

All individuals have been offered help in the FCSO jail.

A great job was done by the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and Apalachicola Police Department! We appreciate their diligent efforts in keeping our community safe.

Franklin County Sheriff’s Office
⭐️ Lt. Shiver
⭐️ Investigator Nunez
⭐️ Investigator Sheridan
⭐️ K9 Deputy Hathcock
⭐️ K9 Deputy Register
⭐️ Deputy C. Nash
⭐️ Deputy Melanchuk

Apalachicola Police Department
⭐️ Officer L. Nash

We have care coordinators ready to walk anyone through detox, rehab, counseling, and long-term support.

Care Coordinators:
📲 Bill Williams | 850-653-7992
📲 Tami Ray-Hutchinson | 850-323-1871