Our Leadership Team
Effective leadership is the cornerstone of any successful law enforcement agency, and the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office is no exception. Strong leaders set the vision, instill core values like integrity and professionalism, and guide the strategic direction of the entire organization. They ensure operational effectiveness, promote accountability, and foster an environment where deputies and staff can perform their duties diligently and ethically. Ultimately, principled leadership builds crucial trust both within the agency and with the community we are sworn to protect and serve, enabling us to meet our commitment to public safety with excellence and dedication.
Meet Our Sheriff
SHERIFF NOEL STEPHEN
Sheriff Noel E. Stephen is an Okeechobee native, deeply rooted in the community he serves. His extensive law enforcement career with the Okeechobee County Sheriff's Office began in 1987 when he started as a Correctional Officer. Throughout his dedicated service, Sheriff Stephen progressively earned promotions, holding every rank from Deputy Sheriff up to Major, the agency's second-in-command. On January 3, 2017, he took the oath of office and was sworn in as the 17th Sheriff of Okeechobee County.
Meet Our Sheriff
SHERIFF NOEL STEPHEN
Chief Deputy Michael Hazellief began his service with the Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office in 2002, initially starting as a volunteer Auxiliary Deputy. Throughout his career, he has gained extensive experience within the agency, serving in both Law Enforcement and Corrections divisions and holding diverse roles including Agriculture Investigator, Crisis Negotiations Team Leader, and Administrative Lieutenant. A graduate of the prestigious FBI National Academy (Session 277), Chief Hazellief was appointed to his current leadership position in 2020.
Join Our Mission, Build Your Career
The leaders featured here guide the Okeechobee County Sheriff's Office in our vital mission: ensuring the safety and well-being of our community. We invite dedicated individuals seeking to make a meaningful impact to join us in this mission. Working at OCSO offers not just a job, but a chance to build a lasting career in public service, develop your skills, and contribute to a safer Okeechobee. Explore how you can become part of our team today.