NEWS RELEASE 22-005 - FEBRUARY 10, 2022

From left: Teletype Supervisor Wayne Bird, Sergeant James Achille,
Lieutenant Arik Smith, and Sheriff Kurt A. Hoffman.

Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt A. Hoffman is pleased to promote three sheriff’s office members to new ranks.

Sergeant Arik Smith is promoted to the rank of Lieutenant assigned to the Emergency Operations Bureau. Smith began his career in public service as an emergency medical technician and paramedic before joining the sheriff’s office in 2006 as a patrol deputy. Throughout his career, he was assigned to the agency’s Tactical Unit and later served as a detective with the Special Investigations Section. Upon his promotion to sergeant in 2017, Smith served in both the Patrol and Special Operations Bureaus, and most recently oversaw the Siesta Key substation and Mounted Patrol Unit. He was twice named Law Enforcement Division Employee of the Month, received the Combat Cross award, and was recognized by the Sarasota Police Department with a Unit Commendation. Smith has advanced training in several areas including crisis intervention, narcotics and dangerous drug investigations, and more. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Liberty University.

Deputy James Achille is promoted to the rank of Sergeant assigned to the Patrol Bureau. Achille earned his law enforcement certification in 2005 and joined the sheriff’s office as a patrol deputy later the same year. Throughout his career, he served as a Field Training Officer as well as a member of both the Emergency Response Team and Hazardous Devices Unit. In 2016, Achille transferred to the Agricultural Unit where he supported the agency's Animal Services Section through investigating crimes in rural Sarasota County. He received two Life Saving awards and has advanced training in crisis intervention, interview and interrogations, response to weapons of mass destruction, and more. Achille also holds an associate’s degree from Manatee Community College.

Teletype Operator Wayne Bird is promoted to the rank of Teletype Supervisor assigned to the Emergency Operations Bureau. Bird was hired by the sheriff’s office in 2012 as a Communications Operator III and quickly promoted to the rank of Operator II the following year. In 2014, he began serving as a Communications Training Officer and joined the Incident Dispatch Team. Bird transferred to the Teletype Section in 2016 where he has since remained. He has advanced training in active shooter response, instructor techniques, mental health first aid, verbal judo, incident command structure, and more.

“These members have shown their commitment to serving the citizens of Sarasota County,” said Sheriff Hoffman. “I have no doubt they are equipped with the knowledge needed to perform at the highest level, and it is my pleasure to support them as they take the next step in their careers.”