MCSO May Deputy and Employee of the Month

A cellphone shot taken by the little boy's mother photo: Manatee County Sheriff's Office

BRADENTON -- On May 2, 2012, Deputy Thomas Smith was at a lab getting his blood work done for insurance when he observed a young boy who was uneasy as he prepared to “get a shot” to give a blood sample. The boy’s mother saw Deputy Smith wink at her son and the boy responded with a big smile. The lab tech took Deputy Smith’s blood first, but when he was done, Deputy Smith asked the boy if he wanted to sit on his lap while he gave the blood sample.

The mother captured the moment with a photo and sent it to an on-line news agency, who in turn inquired on the identity of the deputy through the MSO Public Information Office. The photo was sent throughout the agency via e-mail and Deputy Smith confirmed his identity. For his compassion shown to comfort this child and help him through this experience, Deputy Thomas Smith is awarded Deputy of the Month for May 2012. Congratulations!

On February 6, 2012, Stephanie Metcalf-Clark received a case that 3-year-old child who had a cast on her leg had missed doctor appointments. The cast was large to the point the child had to use a wheelchair to get around. The family had history with Child Protection Services where other children had been removed from the mother’s custody. When Stephanie located the mother, she advised she was going to pick up the children at a daycare and Stephanie advised she would meet her there. 

When Stephanie arrived at the daycare center, it was determined that the children had never been there. At that point, the family could not be located, but she continued her attempts, finally locating the father who helped locate the children. Thankfully, the children were in good condition, and services were offered to help the family, including physical therapy for the child.

For her dedication to this particular case and her ability to manage her workload to ensure the safety of all children, Stephanie Metcalf-Clark is awarded Employee of the Month for May 2012.  Congratulations!