| A trained and observant employee combined with an innovative cooperative program between the Manatee County Tax Collector and Sheriff that station a full-time deputy in the Tax Collector’s Office resulted in the arrest of a woman who was wanted by the US Marshal’s Service for over 20 years on cocaine related charges.
Christine Marie Dickinson, whose photo and information were listed on the US Marshal’s Service – Northern District of Florida website, was arrested after attempting to obtain a Florida ID card at the Tax Collector’s DeSoto office, 819 301 Blvd. W., Bradenton.
“Our extensive training on fraud detection and prevention combined with outstanding employees who truly care about ‘performing their duties with excellence,’ enabled us to assist law enforcement in apprehending this wanted person,” said Ken Burton, Manatee County Tax Collector. “The customer had everything she needed to obtain the ID according to procedure, but the employee became concerned because of the amount of time it had been since she had possessed an ID Card or Driver License in any state.”
Early this year, the Tax Collector contacted Manatee County Sheriff Brad Steube about permanently stationing a deputy at his busiest office because of increased threats against employees and the office related to the requirements of the Federal Real ID Act and the new driver license responsibilities mandated by the State. The Deputy position is underwritten by the Tax Collector ensuring that the same deputy works each day at the location.
“We are fortunate to have a great deputy assigned to us,” said Burton. “Deputy Andrew Jacobus has assisted with 105 irate or hostile customer issues so far this year. On almost a daily basis his presence helps to diffuse irate customers who do not want to comply with the myriad of federal and state laws we are bound to enforce.”
Since the Deputy Program began in February, there have been 65 misdemeanor arrests, 37 felony arrests, 28 UTC (citations) issued, 10 warnings issued and one stolen Mercedes recovered. Other arrests include: an unregistered sexual predator from out-of-state attempting to obtain a Florida ID, customers driving on suspended/revoked licenses (Habitual Traffic Offenders), customers with warrants from around the state and nation, as well as arrests for title fraud and the presentation of counterfeit or fraudulent identity, driver license and immigration documents.
The Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office was one of only two organizations and the only government agency to win the coveted Florida Governor’s Sterling Award recognizing best business practices and role model performance in May, 2011.
The mission of the Manatee County Tax Collector’s Office is to perform our duties
with integrity and respect, focusing on innovation and serving with excellence.
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