The Martin County Sheriff's Office (MCSO) sent its rapid response team to the panhandle Saturday afternoon to help with relief efforts after Hurricane Michael.
The group of about 15 deputies will help with public safety including patrol for looters, assist with traffic control, search and rescue missions and enforce curfews in areas still without power.
“Florida sheriff’s stand together and we have several sheriff’s up there, one of which I understand has lost part of his actual office, they are not able to provide the public safety that’s necessary for the public up there,” said Sheriff William Snyder.
Saturday afternoon the deputies enjoyed a hot meal before holding a briefing and packing up supplies to head up to the panhandle. The team was sent off by Sheriff William Snyder and Congressman Brian Mast.
MCSO said their task force will be up there for about 2 weeks. They will stay in constant communication and once they assess the needs, MCSO may send another team up to relieve the first group.
“Without aid from outside sheriff’s offices and police departments they will not be able to provide basic services to the community,” said Sheriff Snyder.
