Chief Deputy Randy Tifft brings more than 36 years of distinguished experience in Corrections and Law Enforcement to the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office. Dual-certified in both fields, he began his public safety career in 1990 with the Florida Department of Corrections, where he progressed through every level of leadership from Correctional Officer to Regional Director. After retiring in 2016, he joined the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office in 2017 as Detention Major, was promoted to Colonel in 2019, and appointed Chief Deputy in 2023. In his current role, he oversees all operations of the Sheriff’s Office.

Chief Tifft’s professional expertise includes strategic leadership, tactical operations, criminal investigations, emergency management, fiscal administration, human resources, and organizational innovation. He is a certified Florida Department of Law Enforcement instructor with extensive professional certifications and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business with a minor in Finance. He is a graduate of the FDLE Chief Executive Seminar (2024), Florida State University’s Senior Leadership and Executive Leadership programs, and holds certification from the National Institute of Corrections in Management Development for the Future. In 2008, he received the agency’s highest recognition, the Medal of Valor, for his leadership during a major disturbance. He also serves as a Consultant and Operations Auditor for the National Institute of Corrections and the National Center for Policing Innovation. 

In addition to his professional responsibilities, Chief Tifft remains deeply involved in the community. He serves as Co-Chair of the Santa Rosa Kids House, Past President of the First Judicial Circuit Law Enforcement Association, and President of the Santa Rosa Sheriff’s Office Star Foundation. He is also actively involved with the Florida Sheriffs Association and the Federalist Society. In recognition of his leadership and service, Chief Tifft was honored as an Honorary Commander for the 1st Special Operations Wing at Hurlburt Field.