The Florida Sheriffs Association has honored two Pinellas County Sheriff's Office deputies with its prestigious Law Enforcement Officers of the Year award for 2024. Sergeant Jake Viano and Corporal Matt Aitken were acknowledged for their exceptional bravery and service, as announced by the FSA. Sponsored by FirstNet® and AT&T, this annual accolade was bestowed upon the officers at the FSA Summer Conference. Their story of comradeship and courage has echoed through the halls of justice and now stands as a testament to their unwavering dedication to the badge.
Having walked the path of law enforcement together since 2006, when Aitken joined the force where Viano had been since 2000, the two men forged a bond beyond the precinct. It was Viano who took Aitken under his wing in the Canine Unit, an opportunity for Aitken to shine, having located over 300 subjects with the help of his K-9 partner, Taco. According to the official PCSO statement, “Their ability to serve the community and act in high-pressure scenarios has saved lives and best served our citizens,” lauded by Pinellas County Sheriff Bob Gualtieri.
Their exemplary acts were truly put to the test on March 12, 2023, when the officers - responding to a call regarding a suspect attempting vehicle break-ins - found themselves in danger's fateful grasp. With Aitken and Taco on the beat, Viano took the initiative to support his comrades, rushing to the scene that culminated in a harrowing confrontation. It was in the thickets of ambush where Aitken confronted peril, face-to-face, struck down by the suspect's gunfire. Viano, shielding himself, observed his partner in distress and Taco's engagement with the assailant. In a pivotal moment, Viano countered the threat, a move that would bring an end to the altercation and, undeniably, save Aitken's life.
Gravely wounded but not vanquished, Aitken's recovery was a testament to his resilience, embodying what FSA President and Charlotte County Sheriff Bill Prummell described as the spirit of the award: “The unwavering dedication and courage that Sergeant Viano and Corporal Aitken have shown in the course of duty is truly commendable.” Both lawmen continue their service, with Aitken now in the Training Division, and Viano in Airport Operations. Viano and Aitken's storied partnership has endured, marked by this recognition of their decisive actions on that fateful day – actions that resonate with the ethos of FirstNet, a collaborator in public safety as noted by FirstNet Solutions Consultant, Rob Lavielle in an official statement.
While these moments may pass into memory, the legacy of Viano and Aitken's courage stands immortalized in their honor as the 2024 Law Enforcement Officers of the Year, a chronicle of valor for the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office and the community they serve.
