TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Five former law enforcement officers from across Florida were honored Saturday morning at the Florida Law Enforcement Officers’ Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, held at the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) headquarters in Tallahassee. FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass presided over the ceremony, which recognized decades of service, leadership, and dedication to public safety.
The officers were nominated by major law enforcement organizations, including the Florida Sheriffs Association, Florida Police Chiefs Association, Police Benevolent Association, Fraternal Order of Police, and the State Law Enforcement Chiefs’ Association. Their selection was reviewed by a committee and formally approved by Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet.
“Florida is grateful for our brave law enforcement officers,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Congratulations to our new Law Enforcement Hall of Fame inductees who exude the values of service, skill, and integrity.”
Attorney General James Uthmeier echoed that sentiment, calling Florida a “law and order state” and noting that the honorees “will inspire the next generation of law enforcement.” Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia praised the inductees for their decades of service, and Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson emphasized their “sacrifices, leadership, and commitment” as examples to others.
FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass said, “These honorees represent the best in our profession. Their leadership and character set them apart as visionaries and champions for justice. Together, they have served more than 200 years protecting Florida’s citizens, and it’s my honor to welcome them into the Florida Law Enforcement Officers’ Hall of Fame.”
2025 Inductees
Chief Kenneth R. Albano – Chief Albano’s 39-year career began as a U.S. Army military police officer in 1982. After serving with the Plant City Police Department and later joining the Temple Terrace Police Department, Albano rose through the ranks to become chief of police in 2008, a position he held until his retirement in 2025. Known for his community involvement, Albano helped establish Temple Terrace’s first Boys and Girls Club and the Tampa Bay Area Chiefs of Police Foundation.
Undersheriff Jerry Bryan – Beginning his law enforcement career in 1985, Bryan served at multiple sheriff’s offices before joining the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. As colonel, he modernized the Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement and later served as undersheriff for Walton County. His career was defined by servant leadership, employee advocacy, and organizational improvement.
Sheriff William “Bill” Farmer – Sheriff Farmer dedicated 56 years to law enforcement, including 25 years as Sumter County Sheriff. His leadership extended statewide through the Florida Sheriffs Association, where he served as president for two consecutive terms. Farmer helped rebuild the association’s headquarters and championed youth programs, including raising more than $100,000 for the Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches.
Chief Charles E. Nanney – Chief Nanney served nearly 35 years in South Florida law enforcement, including 31 years with the Miami-Dade Police Department. A decorated officer with multiple Medals of Valor and Lifesaving Awards, Nanney emphasized community policing and leadership development throughout his career. Miami-Dade County proclaimed October 18th as “Chief Charles E. Nanney Day” in his honor.
Chief Stephen Stepp – Chief Stepp’s 40-year career began in North Miami, where he worked in patrol, investigations, and narcotics before becoming assistant chief. He later led the Palm Beach Gardens Police Department for 15 years, where he created community outreach programs, launched a Police Foundation, and oversaw construction of a new tactical training facility and emergency operations center.
The five inductees represent more than two centuries of combined service to Florida’s communities. Each has left a lasting mark on law enforcement through leadership, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to public safety.
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