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Crist Names Sheriff To Drug Task Force

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By LISA A. DAVIS, The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 15, 2007

NEW PORT RICHEY - Gov. Charlie Crist this week appointed Sheriff Bob White to the Task Force for the Remediation of Illicit Drug Labs, a statewide initiative combating illegal drug use and sales.

"The Pasco sheriff's office has played a vital role in cracking down on various illicit drug labs over the last few years from leading the region in meth labs to the increase recently in marijuana grow houses," White, 57, wrote in a prepared statement. "I strongly believe illegal drugs are the fuel that drives our crime engine."

National, state and local leaders of the Fraternal Order of Police in recent months sent letters to the Governor's Appointment Office saying they could not support White's nomination to the task force.

The sheriff and the Fraternal Order of Police Pasco County Lodge 29 are at a collective bargaining impasse.

"Our organization believes firmly that Sheriff White does not support his deputies' efforts," wrote James W. Preston, president of the state lodge. "Therefore, I cannot endorse Sheriff White for any appointments or positions by Governor Crist."

The other appointees to the task force are:

Michael J. McLean, 49, of Lake Mary, Seminole County commissioner; Louis S. Roberts, 51, chief of the Marianna Police Department; Isaac "Ike" Robinson, 70, West Palm Beach city commissioner; and Eric M. Sain, 39, of West Palm Beach, a Realtor with the Corcoran Group.

Reporter Lisa A. Davis can be reached at (727) 815-1083 or ldavis@tampatrib.com.

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