Officer Down

Sergeant Joseph Ossman
Florida Department of Corrections, Florida
End of Watch: Sunday, September 10, 2017
Age: 53
Tour: 21 years

Deputy Sheriff Julie Bridges
Hardee County Sheriff's Office, Florida
End of Watch: Sunday, September 10, 2017
Age: 42
Tour: 13 years
Badge # 111

Deputy Sheriff Julie Bridges and Sergeant Joseph Ossman, of the Florida Department of Corrections, were killed in a vehicle crash at the intersection of Route 66 and Old Crewsville Road, in Zolfo Springs, at approximately 6:45 am.

Both officers had been required to stay in the county despite mandatory evacuations due to Hurricane Irma. Deputy Bridges was picking up supplies for a hurricane shelter when her patrol car collided head-on with Sergeant Ossman's vehicle. Sergeant Ossman was reporting for his shift at the Hardee Correctional Institution, which remained opened despite the evacuation.

Deputy Bridges had served with the Hardee County Sheriff's Office for 13 years. She is survived by her 8-year-old son and parents.

Sergeant Ossman had served with the Florida Department of Corrections for 21 years.

Rest in Peace…We Got The Watch

Nemo me impune lacessit

Day is done, Gone the sun, From the lake, From the hills, From the sky. All is well, Safely rest, God is nigh.