Sheriff, County Council Honor Retiring Major Rocky Norris

Date Added: August 21, 2014 10:15 am

Gary Davidson
Public Information Officer

In the span of a 28-year law enforcement career with the Volusia County Sheriff’s Office, you get to do just about everything. That certainly has been the case for Major Rocky Norris, who has had assignments as varied as patrol, court services, civil, special services and even a stint as a DARE instructor, to name but a few. Over the course of nearly three decades, you also get the chance to experience a few “firsts.” For instance, Norris was the first sergeant assigned to Volusia’s new courthouse when it opened, he was the Sheriff’s Office’s first homeland security director and he was the first full-time grenadier on the agency’s SWAT Team, where Norris spent 18 years.

At the end of the month, Norris’ career with the Sheriff’s Office will come to a close. On Thursday, the County Council along with Sheriff Ben Johnson and a large contingent of Norris’ co-workers took time out to give Norris a fond farewell and a few pats on the back for a job well done. “It’s kind of a bitter-sweet moment,” Sheriff Johnson told the County Council during a recognition ceremony in the Council chambers in DeLand. “Rocky has been a big part of this agency, and we’re going to miss him. He served the citizens of this county with dignity.” 

Norris, 62, began his career with the Sheriff’s Office in August 1986. Before that, he worked for the Ormond Beach Police Department and the Tomoka Correctional Institution. His last assignment at the Sheriff’s Office was commander of the agency’s Judicial Services Division, where he oversaw court security, prisoner transport, central records and the civil section. “I’ve done a lot of stuff. I’ve had a good time,” Norris told the Council. Norris also took the opportunity to thank his wife, Linda, who shared the podium with him on Thursday, taking the spotlight off of himself to honor her for taking care of the home-front all these years so that he could be out serving the community. County Council members expressed their thanks and appreciation to the couple.

“Thank you for your service,” said Council member Deborah Denys. “These are large shoes to fill. You have a legacy here in Volusia County.” Added Council Chair Jason Davis: “May you have a great retirement!”

Norris’ post as Judicial Services Division Commander is being filled by Major Chico Mandizha, who was promoted earlier this month.