Law enforcement on Volusia County beaches now falls on sheriff’s office

VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. — A new bill that requires the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office to oversee law enforcement on the county beaches has been signed by Gov. Ron DeSantis.

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The bill transitions the power from Beach Safety officers to deputies. The two agencies have already been working together in anticipation of the law taking effect, according to a Volusia County Sheriff’s Office press release.

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“Sheriff Mike Chitwood commended Volusia County Manager George Recktenwald, his administration and staff, the Volusia County Council, and the many professional members of the Sheriff’s Office and Beach Safety for planning a smooth, effective transition in such a short period of time,” the news release states.

Beach safety will continue managing the beach and still provide lifeguard and emergency medical services to beachgoers while deputies perform the law enforcement aspect, according to the news release.

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