Manager Michael Speigle, Supervisor Kevin Hiles, Sergeant Jack Gurney, and Sheriff Tom Knight.
Sarasota County Sheriff Tom Knight is pleased to announce the promotion of three Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office members.
Detective Jack Gurney is promoted to the rank of Sergeant assigned to the Patrol Bureau. Gurney joined the sheriff’s office in 2009 and throughout his career worked in the Tactical Unit, Criminal Investigations Section, and Patrol Bureau including at the Siesta Key substation. Gurney is a longtime SWAT team member, a Life Saving Award recipient and was selected as the 2012 Deputy of the Year. Gurney earned his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Liberty University and served in both the United States Army and National Guard. Gurney has a decorated military career and has been awarded the Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Medal, Global War on Terrorism medal, and several others. He previously served with the Florida Department of Corrections and Alachua County Sheriff’s Office.
Emergency Operations Supervisor Michael Speigle is promoted to the rank of Manager assigned to the Emergency Operations Bureau. Speigle joined the sheriff’s office in 2008 as a communications operator and in 2012, was promoted to supervisor. Speigle has received special training in crisis intervention and leadership and is a communications training officer. He is currently a member of the agency’s Incident Dispatch Team and is trained in emergency medical, emergency police and emergency fire dispatch services.
Communications Operator Kevin Hiles is promoted to the rank of Supervisor assigned to the Emergency Operations Bureau. Hiles joined the sheriff’s office in 2011 and is trained in emergency medical, emergency police and emergency fire dispatch services. He is a communications training officer and is recognized for helping develop several training materials for the Emergency Operations Bureau. Hiles earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Toledo and both his master’s and doctorate degrees from Nova Southeastern University. Hiles is well known in the community as he was an assistant principal in Manatee County for more than 20 years.
“It is with great pride I elevate these three gentleman to the next ranks in their career,” said Sheriff Tom Knight. “These three members are an exceptional representation of our agency and of law enforcement in general. They understand and practice our values of integrity, service, fairness and respect on a daily basis, and I have no doubt they will continue to make this community very proud.”