In a heartwarming ceremony held Wednesday in Tallahassee, 13-year-old Devarjaye “DJ” Daniel, a young boy battling brain and spinal cancer, was sworn in as an honorary deputy by Indian River County Sheriff Eric Flowers, joined by Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and a coalition of state law enforcement leaders.
The event celebrated DJ’s passion for law enforcement and his inspiring mission to be sworn in by as many agencies as possible.
The ceremony drew an impressive turnout, including approximately 20 sheriffs, 10 police chiefs, and representatives from key state agencies such as the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). DJ’s infectious enthusiasm and courage left a lasting impression on all who attended.
“It was an honor to be part of the ceremony today to swear in DJ Daniels alongside Governor DeSantis and other Florida Law Enforcement Leaders,” Sheriff Flowers told Sebastian Daily. “He’s truly an inspiration for anyone who gets the opportunity to meet him. His love of law enforcement is so pure and special.”
DJ was also deputized as an honorary Florida State Trooper by FHP Colonel Gary Howze II and sworn in as an honorary FDLE Special Agent by FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass. These honors underscored the widespread support for DJ’s mission and the deep respect he has earned from Florida’s law enforcement community.
The event recognized DJ’s bravery in the face of a challenging diagnosis and featured compassion in uplifting a young hero. DJ’s mission is to be sworn in as an honorary member of law enforcement agencies across the country.
