The Lee County Sheriff’s Office, much like the area it serves, is made up of people from all over the country.
But for Cpl. Bobby Hunter, southwest Florida has always been home.
He serves Bonita Springs – the very city he knows best.
“It's just me seeing the community grow,” Hunter told Gulf Coast News. “My kids growing in this community, my friends' kids growing in this community.”
Hunter has worn the badge for 26 years now.
He’s a Navy veteran and takes pride in serving those who’ve also served.
“This is everything,” Hunter said of his job. “It's just going out to make a difference somewhere in someone's life to help them out. That's my job."
That dedication to making a difference and serving others has now earned Hunter a huge honor.
He’s one of five finalists for Law Enforcement Officer of the Year in Lee County.
“To be nominated for this, it's very humbling,” Hunter said.
After 26 years on the job, Hunter has seen it all. He’s caught criminals. He’s saved lives.
But he’s most proud of something more.
“The commitment to the city. To the neighborhoods. To the veterans,” he said. “Just being dedicated — 20-something years of service in one area.”