Anthony Collins, Chief Deputy

image of Anthony Collins

Office of the Chief Deputy of Support Operations

Chief Deputy Anthony Collins has dedicated over two decades to the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office (HCSO), exemplifying steadfast commitment and leadership in serving his community.

Born and raised in Tampa, Chief Deputy Collins began his law enforcement career with HCSO in 2004 as a Deputy Sheriff, while simultaneously serving in the Army National Guard. His early assignments in patrol laid a solid foundation for a career marked by versatility and excellence.

Throughout his tenure, Chief Deputy Collins has undertaken various deputy and detective roles in units such as Street Crimes, the Sheriff's Target Area Response Squad, the Tactical Intelligence Team, and the Major Violators Unit, where he played a pivotal role in disrupting and dismantling drug trafficking organizations. His nine years of service on the S.W.A.T. team further exemplify his dedication to the agency's most challenging operations.

In 2014, he ascended to a supervisory role, overseeing patrol deputies and detectives in the Juvenile Services Section, General Offense, and District Intelligence Unit. His leadership journey continued as he served as the District V Patrol Operations Commander, District Deputy Commander, and District Commander. Most recently, as Colonel, he led the Department of Operational Support, ensuring efficient and effective law enforcement services.

Academically, Chief Deputy Collins is a proud graduate of Saint Leo University, holding a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice with a concentration in Homeland Security and a Master of Science in Criminal Justice focusing on Critical Incident Management. His commitment to excellence is further demonstrated by his graduation from the prestigious FBI National Academy’s 280th Session and the Police Executive Research Forum’s Senior Management Institute for Police 75th Session.

Beyond his professional achievements, Chief Deputy Collins is deeply invested in the community. He holds board memberships with the Pace Center for Girls, ACTS Florida, and the Derrick Brooks Charities Youth Programs. His exemplary service has earned him numerous commendations, reflecting his dedication to public safety and community engagement.

As a devoted husband and father of two, Chief Deputy Collins embodies the values of family and community that the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office holds dear.

His promotion to Chief Deputy marks a historic milestone in the agency's 180-year history, as he becomes the first African American to hold this esteemed position. This achievement underscores HCSO's commitment to diversity, inclusion, and recognizing talent in all its forms.