Pictured left to right: Law Enforcement Deputy Jessica Yoder, Corrections Deputy Eric Mooney, Administrative Media Specialist Alanna Gnesin and Sheriff Kurt A. Hoffman (Not pictured Communications Operator II Michelle Wilcox)
Sarasota County Sheriff Kurt A. Hoffman today recognized the 2025 Employees of the Year.
Deputy Jessica Yoder, 2025 Law Enforcement Deputy of the Year, joined the sheriff’s office in 2015 and is recognized for her professionalism, exceptional service and commitment to the values of the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office. Her dedication to community outreach and engagement reflect the agency’s mission and makes her an outstanding representative of this office. Throughout the year, she has exceeded expectations and exhibited a level of service deserving of recognition. Yoder received numerous community compliments during the 2025 calendar year, praising her for her compassion, respect, and dignity shown to those she encounters while performing her duties as a law enforcement officer.
Deputy Eric Mooney is recognized as the 2025 Courts & Corrections Deputy of the Year. Mooney joined the sheriff’s office in 2007 and is assigned to the North Wing of the Correctional Facility where he serves as a floater who responds to call for service and supports the efficient operation of the facility. Mooney is widely regarded as a role model and leader by both his supervisors and peers. When the facilities laundry area was out of service for a week during the month of April, Mooney ensured all shifts had the uniforms and linens they needed, by proactively identifying mechanical issues and supply needs. While utilizing effective communication and teamwork, Mooney provides guidance to his coworkers and remains composed under pressure.
Communications Operator II Michelle Wilcox received the 2025 Quality Assurance of the Year Award. Wilcox began working for the sheriff’s office in 2017 in the Emergency Operations Bureau. The Quality Assurance Award is based on a combination of overall quality assurance scores, the number of calls audited and scores on pre-arrival instructions. Wilcox earned overall compliant marks for Medical and Fire Calls and an overall 100% compliance for Law Calls. Communications Operator II Wilcox's professionalism and dedication are outstanding, as is her commitment to serving the community.
Administrative Media Specialist Alanna Gnesin is recognized as the 2025 Civilian Employee of the Year. Gnesin joined the sheriff’s office in 2001 and has been an integral part of the Community Affairs Office since stepping into her current role as Administrative Media Specialist. Gnesin helps keep the community informed through her work creating and designing various publications including the Annual Report, Strategic Plan and the 25/26 Sheriff’s Office Budget Presentation. In addition, her leadership was central to the planning and implementation of several successful community events during the year such as the Halloween Drive-Thru, Block Party, Halloween Shop with a Cop and the annual SCSO Toy Drive. By working in coordination with established community partners all while seeking out new opportunities, Gnesin has ensured that the community outreach of the sheriff’s office is strong and will continue well into the future.
“While I take pride in the highest standards of professionalism performed by all members of the sheriff’s office, these honorees stood out among the rest in 2025,” said Sheriff Hoffman. “Their hard work and dedication are a true testament to what it means to serve both the agency and community.”