Nocco Starts New Term as Pasco's Top Cop

Pasco County Sheriff Chris Nocco wore a deputy’s uniform as he stood inside Redeemer Community Church in the New Port Richey area Wednesday, waiting to be sworn in to his first full term as top cop.

More than a year and a half ago, Nocco stood inside the same church wearing a suit and tie as he was sworn in to serve out the rest of Bob White’s term.

The first time around, Nocco was appointed to serve by Gov. Rick Scott. This time was even more special: Pasco County voters elected Nocco to serve a full four-year term. He beat Democratic candidate Kim Bogart in a landslide victory in November.

Wednesday’s swearing in was attended by Nocco’s deputies, family members, state Rep. Mike Fasano and several other guests.

“I know why God put you, put me, in the positions we are,” Nocco said, addressing his deputies. “It’s to make a difference.”

Let Patch save you time. Get great local stories like this delivered right to your inbox or smartphone every day with our free newsletter. Simple, fast sign-up here.

Nocco reflected on the accomplishments made during his time in office. He referenced instituting the Intelligence-led Policing method at the agency, efforts to reach out to the community and attempts to build a healthier sheriff’s office.

What the agency accomplished in his first year and a half in office “we’re going to produce 10-fold” in the new term, Nocco said.

Nocco said the agency is changing rapidly as Pasco County grows. He thanked the community for its support in his election campaign.

Agency chaplain and Redeemer pastor Bill Gunter gave a sermon before Nocco was sworn in. He told Nocco that he would face challenges from opponents and friends and the public opinion. He also offered some advice.

“You will only serve the people of this community in as well as you are serving God,” he said. “...Be a man of piety and principle.”