Ocala Police Department

09/08/2026

If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of su***de or in need of emotional support, please call 9-8-8. This Lifeline is free, confidential, and available 24/7 across the United States.

No matter the challenges you're facing, whether it's related to su***de or not, you can reach out to the for emotional support.

For additional information, visit 988lifeline.org.

09/07/2026

Happy Labor Day!

09/06/2026

09/05/2026

⚠️ The Police Department will conduct high-visibility enforcement operations to improve pedestrian 🚸 and bicyclist safety🚴.

This initiative is taking place now through May 2027, particularly along S. Pine Ave., Silver Springs Blvd., US Hwy 27, and SW College Rd., which are identified as having the highest crash rates.

Our goal is to increase awareness, as well as educate on and enforce Florida traffic safety laws. Special attention will be directed toward speeding, blocking crosswalks, failing to obey pedestrian crosswalks, violations of right-of-way, failing to use lights at night—for both vehicles and bicycles—along with any other violations of Florida traffic laws. Many traffic crashes result from these violations and are avoidable.

Let’s all do our part so everyone stays safe!

09/04/2026

HOMETOWN HEROES! proudly attended Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services' Annual Hometown Heroes Awards Gala. A few of our were honored and recognized for their hard work and accomplishments

🏆 Hometown Hero: Captain Casey Eades was recognized for strengthening the Communications Center through leadership, teamwork, and a culture of trust.

🏆 Act of Valor: Detective Evan Thomas helped save an unconscious stranger on State Road 200 with Narcan and CPR until additional help arrived.

🏆 K9 LEO Award: K9 Vice and Officer David Arango were recognized for exceptional teamwork locating narcotics and apprehending offenders.

Finalists:
⭐️ Crime Analysts Courtney Larsen and Emily Labbe were recognized for their tireless work tracking a double-homicide suspect across state lines.

⭐️ Sergeant Rus Rainey was recognized for leading a complex narcotics investigation that disrupted local drug operations and removed dangerous substances and weapons from the community.

⭐️ 911 Dispatcher Shannon Bramhall was recognized for her remarkable composure during a bomb threat and a presidential visit happening simultaneously.

⭐️ 911 Operator Anjolee Blount was recognized for her compassion and calm while guiding a frightened family through a 20-minute water rescue call.

⭐️ 911 Operator Savannah Jackson was honored for quickly sending units to a major building fire despite heavy radio traffic.

⭐️ Chaplain Joe Hassler was the inaugural recipient of the Doug Green Chaplain Recognition Award.

Congratulations to all! Thank you, Hiers-Baxley Funeral Services, for hosting such a wonderful event to honor our Hometown Heroes!

09/03/2026

🎉🍦 MISSION: POLAR PATROL TURNS 5!

Our Polar Patrol Ice Cream Truck has been connecting with the community for 5 amazing years! It's more than just handing out free ice cream. Now the program includes a Community Engagement Trailer filled with activities for officers and kids to connect and create lasting memories.

Thank you to our incredible sponsors and community for keeping this sweet mission alive! We look forward to many more years of building connections! 💙

09/03/2026

🚨 Labor Day is almost here! Let's keep our roads safe. 🚨

During the 2024 Labor Day weekend, 505 lives were tragically lost in traffic crashes across the U.S.—and 33% involved an impaired driver.

Impaired driving isn't worth it. A single DUI can cost nearly $10,000, not to mention the devastating effects on families and communities.

The Ocala Police Department Traffic Unit will have extra patrols to identify and arrest impaired drivers.

🚗 Plan ahead! If you’re drinking, arrange for a safe ride home. The life you save could be your own. Stay safe, Ocala!

09/02/2026

UPDATE: The road is open. The motorcyclist's injuries are not life-threatening.

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🚨 Traffic Alert: NE 14th Street is fully blocked in both directions due to a vehicle crash involving a motorcycle. The rider has been taken to the hospital. Traffic is closed between NE 36th Ave and NE 30th Ave. Please plan ahead and use alternate routes in your travels.

09/02/2026

We offer our deepest condolences to Cliff Murphy's family and friends. We stand with the Marion County Fire Rescue during this difficult time.

09/01/2026

Please see the viewing and celebration of life details for former Ocala Police Chief Samuel Williams. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.