Pinellas County Policing Models
An interactive comparison to help residents evaluate policing options.
The Context for Largo
The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office budget represents a significant portion of the county's general fund. This has prompted discussions about alternative policing models for municipalities like Largo, exploring potential logistical synergies and budgetary diversification. This tool provides a comparative look at different policing models across Pinellas County to inform this important decision.
Pros and Cons of Policing Models
Own Police Force (Pros)
- More local control and direct accountability to city officials.
- Officers are dedicated solely to the city, fostering community familiarity.
- Faster response times for hyper-local issues.
Own Police Force (Cons)
- Higher administrative and overhead costs.
- Limited access to specialized units and resources.
- Can be less cost-effective for smaller municipalities.
Contract with PCSO (Pros)
- Cost savings through economies of scale.
- Access to a wider range of specialized services (K-9, aviation, forensics).
- Simplified administration and reduced liability for the city.
Contract with PCSO (Cons)
- Less direct control over policing policies and priorities.
- Deputies may rotate, leading to less familiarity with the community.
- Potential for slower response times to non-emergency calls.
Financial Analysis for Largo: A Path to Fiscal Stability
Filter by Policing Model
FY 2025 Adopted Cost Per Capita Comparison
City
Cost Per Resident
FY 2026 Proposed Cost Per Capita Comparison
City
Cost Per Resident (% Change from 2025)