For Immediate Release

January 30, 2007

The media has been reporting that undercover operations, including street level narcotics buys and sells, have been temporarily suspended by the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office.

This is inaccurate.

"We are following our standard operating procedure for any incident resulting in a shooting by an officer. In this case, the assignments of the two tactical teams involved in the shootings at Sable Palms and Westmont Street have been suspended," according to Undersheriff Frank Mackesy.

Mackesy, Sheriff Rutherford's top appointed staff member, is responsible for responding to all officer-involved shooting scenes. As part of his duties, he oversees the progress of all investigations involving officers.

"We have two specific narcotics tactical teams who are now following our standard "critical incident response" protocol. This means their normal investigative duties and assignments have been suspended, until completion of their administrative responsibilities, as a result of the shooting. 

This includes undergoing mandatory debriefing, and any needed employee assistance or care. Then, they will return to their investigative duties," Mackesy explained.

"All other investigative assets of the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office are deployed as usual, at this time." he concluded.