PANAMA CITY, Fla. – Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis held a news conference in Panama City to celebrate a major milestone in the state’s law enforcement bonus program.
The program, designed to support and recruit officers, has awarded over 9,400 bonuses totaling about $63 million.
DeSantis emphasized Florida’s commitment to being a “law and order state” and credited Florida’s low crime rates to both strong policies and dedicated law enforcement officers.
He noted legislation banning defunding of police and strict penalties for rioting and looting.
“If you’re engaging in mob violence, you’re going to jail. And we’re going to hold you accountable,” said DeSantis.
DeSantis also highlighted the importance of supporting law enforcement as a noble vocation. The state offers scholarships for law enforcement academy trainees, covering tuition and education expenses to encourage recruitment.
The Florida Law Enforcement Recruitment Bonus Payment Program, which became law in April 2022, provides a $5,000 after-tax check to new recruits and officers transferring from other states.
“The bonus has been really, really good for morale,” DeSantis said.
The governor said the program has helped nearly 2,000 recruits start their law enforcement careers in Florida.
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