Florida Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis appointed Fort Walton Beach Police Chief Robert Bage to the State Immigration Enforcement Council on Wednesday.

• The council serves as an advisory body to the State Board of Immigration Enforcement, which was established by the Florida Legislature in February 2025. The board is led by Governor DeSantis and the Florida Cabinet, including CFO Patronis, Attorney General James Uthmeier, and Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson.

“Before serving nearly 30 years in Florida law enforcement, Chief Bage served two years in the United States Navy and has great experience protecting America’s borders from his time with the United States Border Patrol,” Patronis said.

Okaloosa Sheriff Eric Aden praised the appointment, citing Bage’s law enforcement experience. “I have every confidence that Chief Bage’s contributions to the Council will help keep our borders secure and Floridians safe from criminal illegal aliens,” Aden said.

Bage, a Miami native, joined the Fort Walton Beach Police Department as chief in 2019 following a nationwide search. During his tenure, the department regained its accreditation status and established a Traffic Safety and Community Policing unit.

• His career includes 20 years with the North Miami Police Department, beginning in 1999. He currently serves as the 1st Vice President of the Florida Police Chief’s Association and is involved with the Okaloosa Health Department, Advanced Sacred Hope Academy, and Fort Walton Beach Rotary.

“I am honored to be appointed to the State Immigration Enforcement Council and grateful to CFO Patronis for his confidence in me,” said Chief Bage. “Throughout my career in law enforcement, I have prioritized community safety and the rule of law, and I look forward to contributing my experience to help ensure Florida remains safe.”