FCSO Employees and Volunteers Honored at 2026 First Quarter Awards Ceremony
An off-duty deputy who saved the life of a choking woman at a restaurant, a volunteer who rescued a woman from drowning while on vacation, and members who contributed to the investigation of a 22-year-old cold case that saw a breakthrough in February are among those who were honored during the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office’s 2026 First Quarter Awards Ceremony held on April 30 at the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Operations Center.
Sheriff Rick Staly awarded multiple Life-Saving Awards to employees for their roles in saving the lives of others. He also presented Unit Citations, Certificates of Commendation, and other awards to employees and citizens as part of the ceremony.
“The employees and volunteers at the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office go above and beyond in their efforts to keep our community safe, regardless of whether they’re on or off duty,” said Sheriff Staly. “It’s my honor to be able to recognize the job these outstanding men and women are doing.”
Three employees received Employee of the Month recognition and 18 were recognized for reaching years of service milestones.
SHERIFF’S CITATION AWARD – Deputy Paige Blake
On Dec. 29, 2025, while traveling home from her shift, Deputy Blake observed a Volusia Sheriff’s Office vehicle on the side of U.S. Highway 1 in Ormond Beach with its emergency lights activated. Deputy Blake noticed there were no other vehicles stopped and the deputy was not with his vehicle. She then saw the deputy in the nearby woodline attempting to secure a subject who was throwing punches and otherwise actively resisting arrest. Deputy Blake rushed to help the deputy and secure the subject without any further use of force. A search revealed the suspect was reaching for a concealed firearm. He was later charged with 22 counts of armed burglary of a vehicle, four counts of grand theft of a firearm, and seven counts of petit theft.
LIFE-SAVING AWARD – Deputy Ashley Jacques
On Dec. 13, 2025, deputies responded to a medical call where a woman had experienced a critical medical event and was unresponsive, without a pulse, and not breathing until Deputy Jacques arrived on scene and immediately began CPR. His prompt intervention restored a pulse, and the woman was subsequently transported by emergency medical services to AdventHealth Palm Coast for further treatment. This decisive, skilled response directly contributed to preserving her life in a time-critical situation.
LIFE-SAVING AWARD – Deputy Joseph Oliva
While off duty at a restaurant in Ormond Beach, Deputy Oliva saw that another patron, former Ormond Beach city commissioner Susan Persis, was choking. Deputy Oliva immediately began rescue measures in the form of the Heimlich maneuver. With Deputy Oliva’s help, Persis was able to dislodge the food item that was stuck, saving her life.
During the awards presentation, Sheriff Staly presented two LifeVac Airway Clearance devices to the restaurant. Every business in Flagler County that serves food — restaurants, bars, coffee shops, hotels, and golf clubs — was provided with the devices in 2025, courtesy of drug-seized assets at no cost to Flagler County taxpayers.
LIFE-SAVING AWARD – Corporal Joseph Barnett
On Feb. 17, Corporal Barnett responded to an overdose call. Upon arrival, the man’s lips were blue and signs of an overdose occurred. Corporal Barnett administered one dose of Narcan spray. In response, the male regained consciousness and made a full recovery. Corporal Barnett rendered aid to another, and the result of his actions stopped a life-ending event.
LIFE-SAVING AWARD – Mark Dyberg (Seniors vs. Crime volunteer)
In March, while on vacation in Puerto Rico, Dyberg observed a young woman in distress while swimming at Condado Beach. Without hesitation, Dyberg entered the water and swam approximately 150 yards through challenging 5-to-6-foot swells, carrying life rings to assist. Despite the hazardous conditions, he successfully reached the victim, secured her, and safely guided her back to shore. His actions reflect the highest standards of bravery, quick decision-making, and concern for the safety of others. His willingness to place himself at risk of saving another individual is a true testament to his character and serves as an outstanding example of heroism.
UNIT CITATION – Detective Sergeant George Hristakopoulos; Detective Corporals Bryan Denker, Seth Green, and Mark Moy; Master Detectives Kathryn Gordon and Adam Gossett; Detective First Class Stacy Kusek; Detectives Lauren Broomfield, Joe Costello, Hayleigh Prentiss, Shannon Smith, and Kyle Somers; Deputy Derek Logsdon; Crime Scene Investigations and Evidence Supervisor Savannah MacLellan; Crime Scene Investigators Caitlin Butler and Mirey Centeno-Negron; Real Time Crime Center Specialist Taylor Cousin; Victim Advocate Rosario Alston
On Dec. 31, 2025, deputies responded to a report of suspicious activity involving a white Ford F-250 with children inside. During a traffic stop, one occupant — later identified as a sexual offender — fled on foot and was detained, while another fled in the vehicle, nearly striking deputies and later colliding with a patrol unit, causing minor injuries. Multiple members of the Major Case Unit, Criminal Intelligence Unit, Real Time Crime Center, Crime Scene Investigations Unit, Flagler County Emergency Communications Center, as well as the St. John’s County Sheriff’s Office and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, assisted with the kidnapping investigation involving an 11-year-old victim and the two suspects. Detectives conducted extensive searches, digital evidence collection, and lengthy interviews, resulting in multiple serious felony charges, including kidnapping and related violent offenses.
UNIT CITATION – Detective Sergeants Gabe Fuentes, Frank Gamarra, and Daniel Weaver; Detective Corporals Adam Barkoskie, Bryan Denker, Seth Green, Mark Moy, and Christopher Santoianni; Master Detectives Kyle Gaddie, Daniel Malta, and Omar Ocampo; Detective First Class Thomas Douglas; Detectives Maxwell Dorsey, Robert Harrington, Dennis King, Troy Magnuson, and Mark Rexford; Crime Scene Investigations and Evidence Supervisor Savannah MacLellan; Crime Scene Investigators Caitlin Butler, Mirey Centeno-Negron, and Gabriella Massa; Real Time Crime Center Specialists Victoria Hanlin and Amber Morrow
On Feb. 9, two commercial burglaries were reported in Flagler County: one within the jurisdiction of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office and another within the Bunnell Police Department’s jurisdiction. The next day, an additional commercial burglary was reported in FCSO’s jurisdiction.
Following an extensive investigation that included targeted operations and assistance from the FCSO Real Time Crime Center, the General Assignment Unit identified a suspect. Detectives subsequently linked the suspect to a total of 12 commercial burglaries spanning Flagler, Volusia, and Duval counties. Coordinated surveillance and operations were conducted by multiple units, and the suspect was arrested by the New Smyrna Beach Police Department for attempted burglary and possession of burglary tools. FCSO’s Crime Scene Investigations Unit assisted with crime scene processing and search warrants.
Detectives successfully obtained arrest warrants for two counts of burglary of a structure causing damage in excess of $1,000, two counts of felony petit theft, and two counts of criminal mischief over $1,000. These additional charges ensured the suspect remained incarcerated. BPD also obtained arrest warrants related to their jurisdiction. Additionally, the suspect’s vehicle was seized for forfeiture.
UNIT CITATION – Commander Jon Dopp; Detective Sergeant George Hristakopoulos; Sergeant Jon Reckenwald; Detective Corporal Michael Breckwoldt; Corporal Andrew Cangialosi; Master Detective Kathryn Gordon; Master Deputy Jeffrey Turner; Detective First Class Philip Kotowski; Detectives Ardit Coma, Necole Marsan, Hayleigh Prentiss, Sarah Scalia, and Kyle Somers; Deputies Jeremy Chambers, Jason Prather, and Robin Towns; Crime Scene Investigations and Evidence Supervisor Savannah MacLellan; Crime Scene Investigators Caitlin Butler, Mirey Centeno-Negron, and Gabriella Massa; Citizen Observer Patrol volunteer Cameron Orr
In August 2003, a Palm Coast resident left home after an argument with family and was never seen again. Sergeant Reckenwald contacted the Florida Department of Children and Families, completed the original case report, and entered it into FCIC/NCIC as a missing person. His early investigative work laid the foundation for everything that followed.
In 2021, the case received renewed attention through media coverage. In February 2024, volunteer dive teams Recon Dive Recovery and Helo and Sub volunteered their time and equipment to assist the FCSO Cold Case Unit in searching area waterways. In October 2025, Detective Scalia received notification that a vehicle had been located submerged in the Intracoastal Waterway near 18th Road. The bumper appeared consistent with a 1996 Plymouth Neon, the same type driven by the victim, and showed traces of red paint.
Between February 2-5, 2026, federal, state, and local personnel conducted a coordinated underwater recovery operation, retrieving multiple items of evidentiary value. The recovery represents a significant breakthrough in a case that remained unresolved for over 20 years and provided long-awaited answers to the family. The case stands as a testament to persistence, collaboration, and the unwavering commitment to never forget those who remain missing.
CERTIFICATE OF COMMENDATION – Corporal Craig Rossi
Corporal Rossi assisted sector units in investigating a sex offense involving a male who engaged in lewd acts in the presence of a 14-year-old victim. Using surveillance footage and investigative techniques, he identified the suspect vehicle and confirmed the associated suspect. Through prior incidents and public databases, he obtained an updated photo for a lineup, leading to the suspect’s identification and a swift case resolution. His use of technology and resources exemplified FCSO’s commitment to innovative policing and positive community outcomes.
CERTIFICATE OF COMMENDATION – Detective Hayleigh Prentiss
On Dec. 15, 2025, deputies responded to a reported child sex offense. After investigation, probable cause was established for sexual battery and lewd and lascivious molestation, and the suspect was arrested a week later.
On Feb. 14, deputies responded to a violent domestic incident in Daytona North. The lead investigator identified signs of ongoing abuse, safely secured the victim, and uncovered prior incidents supporting felony charges, including battery and strangulation. The suspect was arrested on Feb. 19.
Detective Prentiss’ persistence, professionalism, and understanding of domestic violence dynamics transformed an initially unclear incident into a successful felony case.
CERTIFICATE OF COMMENDATION – Civil Clerk Suzanne Gardy
Following a burglary of Golden Chopsticks Buffet in Palm Coast, detectives identified a female as one of the suspects. However, one of the previously-arrested suspects reported that the individual was deceased.
During an annual warrant audit, research revealed a possible updated address for the subject in Cook County, Illinois. On Jan. 28, a teletype was sent to Cook County authorities requesting assistance in locating the subject. Illinois law enforcement responded to the address, located the individual, and took her into custody. The subject has since been returned to Flagler County to address the outstanding charges.
CERTIFICATE OF COMMENDATION – Crime Scene Investigator Gabriella Massa
Crime Scene Investigator Massa demonstrated exceptional initiative and dedication by successfully organizing a Basic Crime Scene Photography course in partnership with Tritech Forensics. The five-day training, hosted in March at the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Operations Center, was attended by 19 CSIs and law enforcement personnel from multiple agencies. CSI Massa accomplished this while continuing to manage her regular caseload, exceeding the expectations of her role. Her ability to manage logistics, communication, and course execution reflects a high level of professionalism, organization, and commitment.
EMPLOYEE OF THE MONTH
January – Detective Hayleigh Prentiss
February – Civil Clerk Suzanne Gardy
March – Crime Scene Investigator Gabriella Massa
YEARS OF SERVICE
5 years – Detective Dennis King, Detention Deputy Bobby Peters
10 years – Master Deputies Justine Crego, Marcus Dawson, and Brad Stogdon; Detective Sarah Scalia
15 years – Commander Robert Tarczewski; Detention Commander Brian Sheridan; Detective Sergeant Gabe Fuentes; Deputy John-Jack Castanheira
20 years – Sergeants Paul Kandour and Michael Miller; Corporal Artur Erlandson; Deputy Ralph Lilavois; Classification Specialist Edward Justice
25 years – Master Deputy Greg Nunziato; Deputies Samuel Cooper Jr. and John Landi
