Lee County deputy combines flying and law enforcement to help patients

LEE COUNTY, Fla. —

The Rotary Club of Fort Myers South is preparing to announce its 2026 Officer of the Year, and Lee County Deputy Christopher Lacey is one of five finalists being introduced this week.

Lacey, who serves in the Lee County Sheriff’s Office aviation unit, has a passion for flying and law enforcement.

"I love the freedom. I love being able to help people. Helping the community. It's something that I've always wanted to do," Lacey said.

Even off duty, Lacey volunteers for Angel Flights, a nonprofit organization that provides free transportation for patients traveling long distances for medical appointments not covered by insurance.

"It's completely free. All they have to do is meet us at the airport. I fly my own plane. I provide the aircraft. The plane I fly is mine; I own it, I co-own it with my brother, and we fly out of Page Field," Lacey said.

A representative from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office highlighted Lacey’s dedication.

"You know, we have almost 2,000 employees, and they are very busy with their regular day-to-day jobs, right? The men and women of the sheriff's office, their family lives. So to see someone do that above and beyond, it really just shows and showcases exactly the type of person he is. He always wants to help somebody else. And that's what this is about," the representative said.

Lacey expressed his surprise and gratitude for being nominated as a finalist for Officer of the Year.

"Oh my gosh, it's incredible. I honestly don't know what to say. I'm at a loss for words. I never in a million years ever thought that I would ever get nominated," he said.

The Rotary Club of Fort Myers South will announce the winner at the Law and Order Ball this weekend. Tonight from 6 to 8 p.m., a special event featuring local celebrity bartenders will be held at Millennial Brewing, where $1 from every pint and tips will be donated to the ball.

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