The momentum to merge Duval County and the City of Jacksonville began to accelerate in the early to mid-1960's. Efficient government was the primary goal of reform-minded citizens seeking consolidation. Consolidation was viewed as the means to direct all of the county's and city's resources to solve problems impacting both jurisdictions. Improvements in all local services were the objectives with law enforcement being a major beneficiary.

In August of 1967 a mandate was given by residents of Jacksonville and Duval County with 65 percent of the votes cast in favor of consolidation. Consolidation Day, on October 1, 1968, was an historic day when the duplication of two governmental bodies was replaced with "a single unified, efficient and cost-effective system for local governance and self-determination."

An encompassing title for the new organization, the Office of the Sheriff - Jacksonville Police, paralleled the name of the new jurisdiction. The Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, as we are most commonly called, has grown significantly in capability and reputation. Through the economies attributed to consolidation, participation in Federal grant projects, and the interest and support of the community in quality law enforcement, our organization has come to be recognized as one of the finest police departments in the United States.