Thomas St. John, Undersheriff

In a pivotal advancement for the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), Thomas St. John has been appointed as Undersheriff, taking on the vital role of second-in-command. In this capacity, he will lead departmental operations, strengthen law enforcement strategies, and ensure the efficient management of resources to enhance public safety and service.

Undersheriff St. John embarked on his distinguished law enforcement career in 1993 with the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office before joining HCSO in 1994. Over the years, he has demonstrated exceptional skill in covert investigations and leadership, with specialized experience in street crimes, economic crimes, and special investigations. His expertise is further reflected in his tenure as a Field Training Supervisor, Intelligence Unit Detective and Supervisor, Narcotics Section Detective and Supervisor, and Commander of both the Professional Standards Section and the Community Outreach Division.

As Commander of the Community Outreach Division, Undersheriff St. John played a pivotal role as Co-Director of the Public Relations Committee for Super Bowl 55. He remains actively engaged in community service, serving on the executive board for HCSO Charities Inc. and as a board member for More Health Inc.

A strong advocate for professional development, Undersheriff St. John is a graduate of Saint Leo University, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement’s 10th Executive Leadership Course, and the Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute.

With a clear vision, proven leadership, and a deep commitment to public service, Undersheriff St. John is dedicated to advancing HCSO’s mission of excellence. His appointment reinforces the agency’s 180-year legacy of integrity, innovation, and community-focused service. He has been married to his wife, Karen, for 36 years, is a proud father of four, and a devoted grandfather.