08/16/2026
Today, our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of Sergeant Corey Griffin of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office.
End of Watch: August 16, 2026
Words cannot even begin to express the sorrow we feel for Sergeant Griffin’s family, friends, colleagues, and the entire Manatee County Sheriff’s Office family. There are simply no words adequate enough to ease the pain of losing a loved one, friend, partner, mentor, or brother in public safety.
Sergeant Griffin dedicated himself to serving and protecting others. Today, we honor that service, remember the life behind the badge, and stand beside all those who are grieving this tremendous loss.
This tragedy is also a painful reminder of something we cannot afford to ignore: we have to take care of one another.
In public safety, we are accustomed to being the ones people call on their worst days. We are expected to remain calm when everything around us is falling apart. We see things that are difficult to explain to those outside of this profession, and too often we convince ourselves that we simply have to carry those experiences with us.
But sometimes, even the people who appear to be the strongest are fighting battles we cannot see.
Reach out to one another. Check on your partners. Check on the coworker who always seems strong. Check on the person who is always making everyone else laugh. Ask twice when someone says, “I’m fine.” And when someone reaches out, listen without judgment.
We need to create a culture where asking for help is met with the same support we would give someone standing beside us on the worst call of their career. Be there for each other. Make the phone call. Send the text. Sit with someone. Listen. Remind them that they do not have to carry everything alone.
If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or emotional distress, the 988 Su***de & Crisis Lifeline is available by calling or texting 988. You can also use the 988 Lifeline online chat.
To Sergeant Griffin’s family, friends, and brothers and sisters at the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office: our hearts are with you. We grieve with you, we stand beside you, and we will keep Sergeant Griffin’s memory and service close to our hearts.
Rest easy, Sergeant Griffin. Thank you for your service to Manatee County.
End of Watch: 08/16/2026
Gone, but never forgotten.
