MEET VENT
PROGRESSIVE LAW ENFORCEMENT
DELIVERING RESULTS FOR OUR COUNTY
I was born and raised in Hardee County. My parents were Vreen and Lucy Crawford and I have three brothers, Van and my late brothers, Vreen II and Vern. I graduated from Hardee Senior High in 1980 and graduated from South Florida Junior College in 1981. In 1985 I married my wife, Dr. Teresa Crawford and in 1987 we had our daughter, Kaylyn.
I was employed with the Florida Highway Patrol in 1983 with my first duty station in Miami, Florida. When Teresa and I married in 1985 I transferred to Arcadia, Florida. Over the years, I worked in all counties in Florida that are South of Polk County in many capacities while employed with the Florida Highway Patrol. In 1993 I graduated from USF with a bachelors in criminal justice and I currently have one class remaining to complete my masters in criminal justice from American Military University.
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I have been active in our community serving as a board member, Player Agent and President of Hardee County Little League.I was a member of the Jaycees and was active on the
Juvenile Justice Board serving as chair. In 1984 I was recognized as Volunteer of the Year for the Hardee County School System where I served as a mentor and also substituted off-duty. For the last 14 years my efforts have been focused on the Hardee County Fair where I’ve served as Vice-President and have been engaged in our board’s efforts to improve our facilities. I’ve volunteered for activities for the Chamber, Athletic Foundation, Education Foundation, and Back to School Events.
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After I retired from the Highway Patrol I went work for South Florida State College as an adjunct instructor in their adult education program. I also continued my work as a second generation citrus farmer and owner.
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In 2021 I took office as the Hardee County Sheriff and began the process of reorganization and redirection for a better law enforcement agency. It is an honor to serve the people of Hardee County every day.
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