ANNA MARIA – Manatee County Sheriff’s Office Deputy and longtime Anna Maria Unit member JoAnn “JoJo” Parkinson has been reassigned and will spend the final year of her career as a member of the sheriff’s office reporting unit in Lakewood Ranch.
During the April 23 Anna Maria City Commission meeting, Parkinson was honored with a proclamation read aloud by Mayor Mark Short.
“Deputy Parkinson is a 24-year veteran of the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, whose career has been defined by professionalism, integrity and an unwavering commitment to public service.
In 2020, she transferred from patrol to the city of Anna Maria, where she quickly became an integral part of our community and a trusted presence among residents, visitors and the whole staff,” Short said.
“Affectionately known as ‘JoJo,’ Deputy Parkinson has earned a reputation for her approachable demeanor, strong work ethic and dedication to community-oriented policing, fostering meaningful relationships and enhancing public trust. Throughout her service in Anna Maria, including during the COVID-19 pandemic and responses to major storm events such as Hurricanes Ian, Helene and Milton, she consistently demonstrated leadership, resilience and selflessness, placing the needs of the community above her own,” Short said.
“As she enters the final chapter of her distinguished career, Deputy Parkinson leaves behind a legacy of dedication, professionalism and community service that will be remembered and appreciated for years to come. Therefore, be it proclaimed that the city commission does hereby recognize and honor Deputy Parkinson for her outstanding service and her many contributions to the safety and well-being of the community.”
When contacted later, Sgt. Brett Getman, the leader of the Anna Maria Unit, said, “I want to wish JoJo well in the next year. She’s been a fantastic person to work with in Anna Maria. I think we can all agree she’s one of the kindest people you will ever meet, with the biggest of hearts.”
