Our History

The Capitol Police was established by the Florida Legislature in 1973 as a plain‑clothes security force. Initially designated as Legislative Security under the Florida Department of General Services (DGS), the unit was led by its first director, FHP Captain Nathan Sharron. Administrative offices were located in the Larson Building, then serving as DGS headquarters, while security operations were conducted from several small offices within the Senate Office Building. At its inception, Legislative Security employed 20 personnel, including security officers and a select group of plain‑clothes law enforcement officers known as special agents. Notably, in 1973 the Capitol Police operated the only Explosive Ordnance Devices Unit in the Big Bend region. Following completion of the new Capitol building in 1978, both administrative and operational functions were relocated into the new facility.

In 1983, legislative action renamed the agency the Division of Safety and Crime Prevention, expanding its mission and introducing a more visible uniformed law enforcement presence. Personnel were assigned to various state buildings, including the Capitol, though building security was not their exclusive responsibility. The Division’s duties broadened to include security for the Capitol Complex, state buildings throughout Leon County, and state facilities in 17 cities across Florida known as Regional Service Centers. Beginning in 1985, the Legislature mandated that the Division provide safety training to other state agencies upon request and develop and implement evacuation procedures for the Capitol.

In 1991, the Florida Legislature again restructured the agency, establishing it as the Department of Management Services Division of Capitol Police.

Following the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, Governor Bush placed the Capitol Police under the direction of the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). This transition aligned the agency with a statewide law enforcement organization and resulted in enhanced security measures at the Capitol, including the deployment of magnetometers and x‑ray screening for all visitors, as well as the assignment of additional state law enforcement officers.

In 2002, the Florida Legislature enacted HB 1407, formally transferring the Capitol Police to FDLE. Sworn law enforcement officers previously assigned to Regional Service Centers were reassigned to Tallahassee. Today, the Capitol Police is primarily responsible for ensuring the security of the Governor, the Lieutenant Governor, members of the Cabinet, members of the Senate and House of Representatives, and the employees who support these officials in the performance of their duties. The agency safeguards access to buildings and grounds within the Capitol Complex and provides protection for state officials, employees, and visitors.

The spring of 2003 marked the 30th anniversary of the Florida Capitol Police. From its origins as Legislative Security, the agency has evolved into a highly professional and capable law enforcement organization. With a dedicated staff of trained law enforcement officers, security officers, and support personnel, the Capitol Police continues to uphold and advance its mission with distinction.

What makes our department’s history special is the way it has continually grown, adapted, and expanded its capabilities to meet the needs of Florida’s government. From its early beginnings as a small security function to its evolution into a full‑service law enforcement agency with specialized units and advanced technology, our history reflects steady progress and a commitment to excellence.

For someone thinking about joining us, that history translates directly into opportunity. Every stage of our growth has created new roles, new training paths, and new ways for officers and staff to develop professionally. The establishment of units like K‑9, EOD, SOT, Investigations, Communications, and the Drone Team shows that we are an agency that invests in its people and embraces innovation.

Our unique mission—protecting the Capitol Complex and supporting the continuity of state government—has shaped a culture of professionalism, teamwork, and readiness. It also means that the work you do here has a direct impact on the safety and stability of Florida’s government operations.

Joining Capitol Police means stepping into an agency with a strong foundation, a clear purpose, and a history of growth that continues to create new opportunities for those who want to build a meaningful and rewarding career.