On January 4, the Seminole County Sheriff's Office faced a day no law enforcement agency ever wants to see when we laid one of our finest to rest. Deputy Sheriff Matt Miller, a 28-year law enforcement veteran, became the sixth Seminole County Sheriff’s deputy to make the ultimate sacrifice when he lost his life in the line of duty the day after Christmas

While it is never easy to say goodbye, we did not do so alone. Our fellow law enforcement agencies and this community came out in full force to express sympathies and support. Police departments, sheriff’s offices, and state law enforcement agencies from across the southeast joined us in paying tribute to Deputy Sheriff Miller. Many others from across the nation reached out to offer condolences.

The outpouring of support from the community was tremendous. People called, sent cards, offered to volunteer and brought food. Many posted online messages. Businesses reached out to see how they could help. Our community filled Northland Church and families lined the processional route, holding up signs and waving flags to honor Deputy Sheriff Miller.

The men and women of the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office are proud to have worked alongside Deputy Sheriff Miller, and we are proud to serve this county. We join Deputy Sheriff Miller’s family in expressing our gratitude to the residents of our county and the central Florida community for uniting with us to honor his memory.



Sheriff Donald F. Eslinger