Attorney General Ashley Moody is honoring one of Florida’s sheriffs who protected others by single-handedly disarming and detaining a man with a machete in a convenience store. At the Florida Sheriffs Association Summer Conference last week, Attorney General Moody presented Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook with a Back the Blue Award.
Attorney General Ashley Moody said, “Seeing someone armed with a machete in a public store would be a sign for most people to run away. However, by single-handedly disarming and detaining the dangerous individual, Sheriff Cook led by example and de-escalated what could have been a life-threatening situation. Florida is safer because of heroes like Sheriff Cook, and it is my privilege to present her with a Back the Blue Award.”
Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook responded, “I am extremely humbled by this recognition from Attorney General Moody. It was an honor to receive an award for doing what I love doing most... serving and protecting the citizens of Clay County.”
While visiting a local store, Sheriff Cook noticed employees behind the counter looking concerned and trying to get her attention without raising alarm. She observed a suspicious individual acting erratically and spotted a weapon hidden in the person’s clothes that turned out to be a machete. Sheriff Cook quickly took action, disarming and detaining the individual before calling for backup—ensuring no one was injured in the process. The individual subsequently received involuntary examination under Florida’s Baker Act.
Attorney General Moody launched the statewide Back the Blue campaign soon after taking office in 2019. The Back the Blue Award recognizes officers going above and beyond the call of duty, as well as citizens and organizations showing extraordinary support of law enforcement.
To nominate an officer, citizen or organization for a Back the Blue Award or for more information about Attorney General Moody’s Back the Blue campaign, click here.