About FDLE
Our Mission
To promote public safety and strengthen domestic security by providing services in partnership with local, state, and federal criminal justice agencies to prevent, investigate, and solve crimes while protecting Florida’s citizens and visitors.
Our Priorities
FDLE is composed of five areas: Executive Direction and Business Support, Criminal Investigations and Forensic Science, Criminal Justice Information, Criminal Justice Professionalism and Florida Capitol Police. In addition, the department formally coordinates boards, councils, and commissions. FDLE’s duties, responsibilities and procedures are mandated through Chapter 943, FS, and Chapter 11, FAC. To learn more about these areas, read our Statement of Agency Organization and Operation or visit our Open Government page.
Our People
FDLE employs about 1,900 members statewide. More information about employment at FDLE can be found in our Employment Information section.
Our Budget
FDLE's annual budget is over $300 million. View FDLE's current budget.
Our Structure
The head of the department is the Governor and Florida Cabinet (Attorney General, Chief Financial Officer and Commissioner of Agriculture). The Commissioner (Executive Director) is appointed by the Governor, with approval from the Cabinet, and confirmed by the Florida Senate. View FDLE's organizational structure.
Our Locations
The department provides services across the state. Agency headquarters is in Tallahassee and there are seven regional operations centers located in Pensacola, Tallahassee, Jacksonville, Orlando, Tampa Bay, Fort Myers and Miami.
Our History
FDLE was established in 1967. See our General Information page for more details on our evolution and achievements over the years.
Our Fundamental Values
FDLE is committed to "Service, Integrity, Respect and Quality." Learn more about our values.
Our Code of Ethics
In 2007, Governor Charlie Crist signed an Executive Order calling for all state agencies to adopt and implement a Code of Ethics. Learn more about FDLE’s Code of Ethics.
Our Role in Domestic Security
Since the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, FDLE has helped lead the state's domestic security efforts. Under Section 943.0311, FS, FDLE’s Executive Director or designee serves as the Chief of Domestic Security in Florida. FDLE’s Office of Domestic Security works with federal, state, and local officials to prepare for, prevent, protect, respond to, and recover from acts of terrorism that affect the state. Seven Regional Domestic Security Task Forces (RDSTF) are strategically located around the state and are comprised of representatives from first responders from fire/rescue, emergency management, public health and hospitals, as well as law enforcement. The task forces also work in partnership with schools, businesses and private industries.The Florida Domestic Security Strategy is the blueprint or plan by which domestic security activities and initiatives are organized and executed in Florida.
Our Accolades
FDLE has earned accreditation by the National Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, the Commission for Florida Law Enforcement Accreditation, and the ANSI National Accreditation Board.
Questions about FDLE?
Read our Frequently Asked Questions page.