FWC Division of Law Enforcement Northwest Region

On Nov. 18, 2025, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) K-9 Handler, Officer John Coker and K-9 River responded to a request from the Bay County Sheriff’s Office for help in locating critical evidence from an incident the night before, when an armed individual shot randomly into the woods, threatening harm. 

The individual eventually surrendered to law enforcement without further incident and was placed into custody. 

Officer Coker and K-9 River searched the area until K-9 River located a firearm, body armor, magazine pouch, several magazines with live rounds and spent casings consistent with the located rifle. 

The FWC Division of Law Enforcement is proud to have the nation’s largest conservation K-9 unit. This is just one example of how these highly trained dogs significantly enhance the division’s ability to protect Florida’s natural resources, locate critical evidence and assist in search-and-rescue operations.

On Oct. 17, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officer Joshua Stallings arrested Morgan Ryan Babb (DOB 08/27/1996) of Franklin County for illegally taking an alligator in the Tate’s Hell Wildlife Management Area in Franklin County. 

Officer Stallings was on patrol in the area when he observed individuals in a truck displaying artificial lights in manner consistent with disclosing the presence of wildlife. Officer Stallings watched as the vehicle stopped and several individuals exited.  

One individual, later identified as Babb, retrieved a rifle from the truck and approached a water filled ditched. He then pulled a line, revealing an alligator that was attached to a hook, and proceeded to shoot the animal. 

Babb was placed under arrest for multiple violations related to the illegal take of wildlife.  

The FWC encourages anyone with information about wildlife violations to contact the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (3922) or submit a tip online at MyFWC.com/WildlifeAlert. Callers may remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward. 

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officer Agoff responded to a report of a gopher tortoise that appeared to have been struck by a vehicle in Bay County. Acting quickly, Officer Agoff transported the injured tortoise to a local wildlife rehabilitator, who performed a life-saving shell repair procedure.

The tortoise is now recovering and is expected to make a full recovery before being released back into the wild.

On Oct. 16, 2025, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officers Ashley Agoff and David Brady issued citations in two separate incidents for fisheries violations while on water patrol in the Gulf of America off Panama City Beach.

In the first incident, the officers cited a charter captain for possession of eight vermilion snapper and one undersize gray triggerfish. In a separate case, they cited the captain of a recreational fishing vessel for possession of eight undersize red grouper.

In both incidents, Officers Agoff and Brady observed individuals actively fishing and conducted resource inspections, which led to the discovery of the violations.

The FWC reminds all anglers and charter operators to review current state and federal fishing regulations before heading out on the water. Responsible fishing practices help ensure healthy fish populations and sustainable recreational opportunities for future generations.

Find information about current commercial and recreational saltwater fishing regulations.

On Oct. 15, 2025, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) decommissioned the Gulf Sentry, marking the end of more than five decades of service across multiple agencies. Built in 1967 by Sewart Seacraft, the vessel began with the U.S. Air Force as MR-85-1603, retrieving missiles from test ranges near Tyndall Air Force Base in Panama City for 26 years. In 1994, it was acquired by NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service and loaned to the Florida Marine Patrol, renamed JJ Brown in honor of retired Col. Joe Brown, and based in Carrabelle. Under various commanders, the vessel became vital to local fishermen and remained in service through the FMP’s transition into FWC in 2000.

By 2007, aging after nearly 40 years of use, ownership shifted from NOAA to FWC, and federal funds supported a complete rebuild at Derektor Shipyard. In 2010, the vessel returned to duty as the Gulf Sentry, featuring a new hull, propulsion, modern electronics, and safety systems that set a new national standard for offshore patrol craft. Under several captains, including Scott Pearce, Jason Marlow and George Wells, she conducted countless enforcement missions, rescues and joint operations with NOAA and the Coast Guard. Highlights included saving a fishing captain in distress and finding a diver lost at sea for over 24 hours.

In 2022, her crew was named Team of the Year by the Gulf Council for outstanding service in protecting offshore fisheries and resources. From missile recovery to marine conservation, the Gulf Sentry embodied adaptability, dedication and courage. As she retires, her legacy endures as a symbol of commitment to Florida’s waters and those who protect them. Lt. George Wells said it best: the vessel’s true strength came from the people aboard — captains and crews whose professionalism and sacrifice made her far more than just a ship.

“But it was the people aboard her who truly brought her to life. Captains who led with skill and care. Crews who braved the elements, kept watch through the night and gave their best in service to our mission,” said FWC Lt. George Wells, “Their dedication, professionalism and sacrifice are what made the Gulf Sentry more than just a vessel — they made her a symbol of commitment and purpose.”

As the Gulf Sentry retires from active duty, her story endures as a proud chapter in the history of Florida’s maritime enforcement and conservation.

Find more Gulf Sentry photos.

On Sept. 16, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Officer Michalski was on patrol and conducting a fisheries resource inspection in Pensacola Bay. He discovered two subjects were in possession of 22 undersize and out‑of‑season red snapper, in addition to exceeding the bag limit. The subjects were issued six criminal charges for their violations.

Find information about recreational saltwater fishing regulations.

The FWC takes wildlife violations very seriously and encourages the public to report them by calling the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922) or submitting a tip at MyFWC.com/WildlifeAlert.

On Aug. 21, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Northwest Region Dive Team provided support to the Bay County Sheriff's Office during an evidence recovery operation on Lake Martin in Panama City.

This coordinated, multi-agency effort involved divers from the FWC, Bay County Sheriff's Office Dive Team, Panama City Fire Department Dive Team, and the Florida State University Underwater Crime Scene Investigation Dive Team.

The joint effort resulted in the successful recovery of a pink firearm, identified as critical evidence in the case against Bay County resident Sammie Underwood. Underwood was arrested on Aug. 9 for allegedly shooting his ex-girlfriend’s 7-year-old son.

Media Contacts

• Northwest Region: Faith.Flawn@MyFWC.com
• Law Enforcement: Ashlee.Sklute@MyFWC.com

Photos

• Find other photos.

On Aug. 10, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) officers responded to a request for assistance from the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office after a deputy discovered an individual sleeping in a truck. The bed of the truck, as well as the individual, appeared to be covered in deer blood, and deer hair was observed in the truck bed.

Upon arrival, FWC officers interviewed Jack Nowling (DOB 11-08-1990) of DeFuniak Springs, who admitted to driving a friend to shine a light for deer at night along Highway 81 in Walton County. He stated his friend shot a deer, which was placed in the back of his truck, and that he assisted in processing the animal and disposing of the carcass.

Officers then interviewed Charles Walker (DOB 03-14-1994) of Ponce De Leon at his residence. He admitted to killing the deer at night along Highway 81 in Walton County. Officers located deer meat in a cooler at his home and the shotgun used in his truck.

The deer carcass was later found near Highway 81, bearing shotgun damage consistent with both individuals’ statements.

Both Nowling and Walker were charged with taking a deer at night with a gun and light, as well as taking wildlife from the right of way of a publicly maintained road.

Media Contacts

• Faith.Flawn@MyFWC.com
• Ashlee.Sklute@MyFWC.com

On June 21, Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers and K-9s Glory and River responded to a request from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO) for help recovering evidence discarded during a vehicle pursuit the previous day. 

During the pursuit, a firearm was observed in the suspect’s vehicle but was not recovered at the time of the arrest. FWC’s K-9 teams searched the area for four hours, taking breaks to rest and hydrate due to the heat. Despite the challenging conditions and dense vegetation, K-9 River successfully located the firearm along the northbound right-of-way of U.S. Highway 231.

FWC is proud to support local law enforcement partners and commends the dedication of its K-9 teams in aiding public safety efforts.

Media Contacts

• Ashlee.Sklute@MyFWC.com
• Faith.Flawn@MyFWC.com

On Wednesday, June 11, at approximately 2 p.m., the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) Northwest Region Dive Team responded to a report of a missing commercial diver performing bridge work on the Choctawhatchee River.

With the aid of witness accounts and sonar technology, FWC divers were able to locate and recover the deceased individual from the river.

We are deeply saddened by the loss of life in this incident and extend our sincere condolences to the victim’s loved ones. We are grateful to our dive team for their swift and professional response in bringing closure to the situation.

The investigation and victim identification have been turned over to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

On June 2, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) responded to a report of a missing 7-year-old boy in the Rocky Creek area of Bluewater Bay in Okaloosa County in coordination with the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, North Bay Fire Department, and Eglin Air Force Base.

The child, who had been paddleboarding, was located approximately 1.5 miles upstream after navigating a challenging stretch of creek filled with submerged trees and other obstacles.

“We are incredibly grateful for the coordinated efforts of all agencies involved and for the safe recovery of this young boy,” said FWC Captain Keith Clark. “His first words after being found: ‘Do you have any food?’”

The boy was transported to a local hospital for evaluation and is reported to be doing well.

The Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office is leading the investigation. No further information is available at this time.

A coordinated marine debris removal effort led by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) has officially kicked off a large-scale initiative to address storm-related debris along Florida’s Gulf Coast.

This inaugural cleanup — spearheaded by the FWC Division of Law Enforcement’s Marine Debris Program and regional law enforcement officers, in partnership with the FWC Division of Marine Fisheries Management’s Derelict Trap and Trap Debris Removal Program — focused on high-traffic areas east and west of the St. Marks Lighthouse and sections of the Wakulla River. The operation successfully removed two large dumpsters full of marine debris.

Key objectives of the clean-up included:

• Identifying and removing derelict blue crab traps posing navigational hazards and contributing to ghost fishing.
• Clearing shoreline and in-water debris left in the wake of the recent record-breaking hurricane season.

These cleanup efforts are vital for restoring essential sea turtle and bird habitats, improving boater safety and supporting healthier coastal ecosystems.

Additional cleanup operations are scheduled in Wakulla County for late July, with a larger, expanded effort planned for early spring 2026 to take advantage of improved tidal conditions.

FWC’s Marine Debris Program is currently conducting a series of similar projects from Escambia to Monroe counties, targeting coral reefs, mangrove islands and coastal marshes. Meanwhile, the Trap Retrieval Program is gearing up for targeted summer removals stretching from the Big Bend to south Florida.

Together, these initiatives reflect a unified commitment to protecting Florida’s marine environment and fostering long-term coastal resilience. 

Photos

Find more photos of the marine debris removal initiative in Wakulla County.

Contacts

Ashlee.Sklute@MyFWC.com        Robin.Simoneaux@MyFWC.com      Faith.Flawn@MyFWC.com

Resources

See information about marine debris and derelict trap removal.

As the busy summer boating season approaches, FWC officers in the Northwest Region are taking proactive steps to ensure Florida’s waterways remain safe. In partnership with the 14th Judicial Circuit State Attorney’s Office, officers recently participated in a wet lab and advanced boating under the influence (BUI) enforcement training.

This specialized, hands-on training session gave officers the opportunity to enhance their field skills in recognizing and handling impaired boating cases. By simulating real-world scenarios, officers gained valuable practical experience in administering sobriety tests and navigating the complexities of BUI investigations.

Beyond technical skills, the training also strengthened collaboration between FWC officers and local prosecutors  – ensuring a stronger, more unified approach to keeping impaired operators off the water and improving the effectiveness of future casework.

FWC remains committed to boating safety and to working closely with judicial partners to protect the public on Florida’s waterways.

While conducting a training operation, 10 officers from the Northwest Region Special Operations Group Team responded to a call to assist the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. The Special Operations Group officers coordinated with the Bay County Sheriff’s Office and Panama City Beach Police Department to locate two subjects connected to an armed robbery that occurred the previous day. Together, they established a perimeter and entered the wooded area searching for the fugitives. The FWC Special Operations Group team successfully located and apprehended both subjects.

Following the arrests, FWC K-9 River was deployed for article recovery. K-9 River quickly tracked and located a backpack discarded by one of the subjects, securing valuable evidence in the ongoing investigation.

See the rescue video.

FWC Officers Chris Boley and Karl Hellett recently participated in the Northwest State College Police Kid’s Camp, sharing information with campers about the role of FWC officers, boating safety, and fish and wildlife conservation.

Campers learned what it takes to become an FWC officer and gained insight into rules and regulations related to fish, wildlife and boating and the importance of conserving Florida’s natural resources. The experience included hands-on opportunities to interact with various wildlife species and explore FWC equipment such as a patrol vehicle and duty gear. Officers also fielded questions about their roles and responsibilities in public safety and conservation enforcement.

The officers were joined by FWC bear management biologists who delivered a presentation about their roles at FWC.

Officers Malcom Ogden and Laurence Glover represented the FWC at the 74th Annual Monticello Watermelon Festival Parade. The officers joined the festivities, passing out treats and smiles while celebrating one of North Florida’s most cherished summer traditions.

The event provided an opportunity for officers to connect with residents and showcase FWC’s ongoing commitment to community engagement. Officers Ogden and Glover made a positive impression with parade-goers.

FWC officers Ashley Agoff and Hannah Lafrenz participated in the Emerald and Forgotten Coast Adventures Summer Camp, an initiative designed for middle and high school students interested in marine science. The 17 students who attended the camp learned about the multifaceted role of FWC law enforcement officers. The officers provided an overview of their responsibilities, focusing on fish and wildlife conservation. Students then had an opportunity to apply what they had learned about Florida’s marine environment by fishing along the shores of St. Andrews State Park.

The FWC participated in the annual Emerald Coast Open Lionfish Tournament in Destin, one of the largest lionfish removal events in the world. Officers Karl Hellett, Hannah Lafrenz and Christopher Boley and Lt. Stephen Wicker (not pictured) represented the agency, which hosted an interactive educational booth throughout the two-day event.

FWC officers engaged with hundreds of visitors, offering information about lionfish removal efforts, responsible boating practices, and marine fisheries conservation. The booth served as a hub for public outreach, giving attendees the chance to ask questions, learn more about Florida’s marine ecosystems, and understand how they can play a role in protecting them.

The tournament itself was a major success: more than 12,000 invasive lionfish were removed from Florida’s coastal waters, helping to reduce this agressive species' environmental impact on native marine life.

FWC officers participated in Franklin County’s annual Cops and Kids Day—an event hosted by the Franklin County Sheriff's Office to bring together local law enforcement, community partners, and students for a day of learning and connection.

Hundreds of K–12 students from all over the county met officers, asked questions and explored how public safety and conservation go hand in hand. FWC Officers Morgan McLeod and Josh Stallings spent the day talking to students, handing out educational materials, and sharing insights about Florida’s fish and wildlife.

The event was a great opportunity to build trust, inspire curiosity, and spark conversations about conservation and law enforcement's important role in protecting our natural resources.

FWC recently hosted an educational field trip to Lynn Haven Conservation Park for 2nd grade students from Deer Point Elementary School. FWC Public Information Officer Chris Boley, Investigator Travis Basford, and Lieutenant Nicole Basford provided interactive presentations about boating safety, hunting, fishing, and wildlife conservation. The kids got an up-close look at an alligator while learning about alligator behavior and conservation efforts. It was a great day of learning, exploring, and sparking curiosity about the outdoors.

On March 18, 25 Gadsden County students from Robert F. Munroe Day School’s outdoor education class experienced an educational field trip at the FWC Training Academy. The students, ranging from 7th to 12th grade, had the opportunity to learn about careers in conservation law enforcement.

FWC Lieutenants Josh Caraker and Casey Anderson led the field trip, providing students with a tour of the FWC classroom, the defensive tactics building, and the outdoor pavilion. The students were introduced to the responsibilities of FWC law enforcement officers and how their duties differ from other sworn officers. The students also gained insights about wildlife identification, management, and conservation and learned about Florida’s imperiled species and the efforts taken to protect them.

Adding to the educational experience, Logan Lane from Tallahassee State College (TSC) spoke with students about scholarship opportunities for the Academy.

The field trip expanded the students’ understanding of the FWC and the Division of Law Enforcement and introduced them to careers in conservation law enforcement.

See other photos from this field trip.

Mothers Against Drunk Driving honored FWC Northwest Region Officers  – Ted Mursch, Heath Oliver, and Ashley Pritchard – for their dedication to boating under the influence enforcement. The FWC officers were recognized at MADD's Law Enforcement Officer Award Ceremony & Candlelight Vigil in Fort Walton Beach. The event brought together officers from multiple agencies from Escambia County to Bay County, recognizing those who have gone above and beyond in keeping the waterways safe. The efforts of these FWC officers reflect the agency's mission to protect Florida residents and visitors and highlight the critical role officers play in preventing tragic, alcohol-related incidents on the water. Congratulations to these FWC officers for the well-deserved recognition!

Lt. David Jernigan joined multiple first responders at the Caryville Apostolic Church’s “Touch-A-Truck” event, where children from the surrounding area had the opportunity to explore various emergency and service vehicles. Attendees got up close with trucks, ambulances, squad cars, firetrucks, boats, and a large vehicle recovery truck. The Division of Forestry also showcased its forest firefighting equipment and McGruff the Crime Dog made a special appearance.

The event featured food and prizes for the kids. Participating agencies included the FWC, the Washington and Holmes County Sheriffs’ Offices (with their drone team, K-9 unit, and dive team), Washington and Holmes Fire, Emergency Medical Services and Ambulance Services, the Division of Forestry, and Caryville Wrecker Service.

See other images from the FWC's participation in the Touch-A-Truck event.