The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) has announced the promotion of Lieutenant Matthew Baird to the rank of Captain, effective February 1, 2025. Captain Baird will assume leadership of the Criminal Investigations Division (CID), overseeing a wide range of units crucial to the agency’s investigative efforts.
Captain Baird’s responsibilities will encompass the following units within the CID: Major Crimes, High Tech Crimes, Forensics, Career Criminals, Special Victims Unit, Behavioral Health Unit, Intelligence Analysis, Tactical Impact Unit, Victim Advocates, and Domestic Violence.
READ: Florida Governor Ron DeSantis Rips State Legislature Over Weakened Immigration Bill
Baird’s career with CCSO began in October 2007 as a Deputy Sheriff. Over his 17-year tenure, he has steadily progressed through the ranks, serving as a Patrol Field Training Officer, Patrol Sergeant, CID Detective, CID Officer-In-Charge, CID Sergeant, and most recently, CID Lieutenant. His dedication to investigative work and commitment to excellence have earned him respect and recognition within the agency.
Sheriff David Vincent expressed his confidence in Captain Baird’s leadership abilities. “Captain Baird has consistently demonstrated exemplary leadership qualities throughout his distinguished career,” Sheriff Vincent said. “His unwavering dedication to professional development and continued education stands as a testament to his commitment to providing exceptional service to our community. I am confident that Captain Baird will continue to demonstrate personal integrity, be accountable of the rank that he has achieved, and provide service to our citizenry with the utmost compassion, empathy, and professionalism.”
READ: Florida Lawmakers Aim To Repeal Later High School Start Times Bill
Captain Baird’s academic achievements further highlight his commitment to his profession. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice Administration from Columbia Southern University. He is also a graduate of the University of Louisville’s Southern Police Institute’s Administrative Officers Course and completed the National Innovation Academy hosted by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office.
Throughout his career, Captain Baird has received numerous commendations, service awards, unit citations, and letters of commendation for his outstanding service and dedication to the CCSO’s mission.
Since 2009, Captain Baird has been a proud member of the CCSO Honor Guard, demonstrating his commitment to honoring fallen officers and representing the Sheriff’s Office with dignity and respect at formal ceremonies and community events.
The CCSO congratulates Captain Baird on his well-deserved promotion and wishes him continued success in his service to Citrus County.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.