The Judicial Security Section is a component of the Administrative Bureau, and is responsible for providing a safe courthouse
environment for judges, attorneys, court personnel, and the general public. There are approximately 60 employees assigned
to the Judicial Security Section which is comprised of four units, the Judicial Center Security Unit, Inmate Transportation Unit,
County Court Unit, and Circuit Court Unit.
Specific duties include:
- Screen persons entering the Manatee County Judicial Center and Historic Courthouse for weapons, contraband, and other unauthorized items. Approximately 1,600 people visit these buildings daily.
- Maintain order and decorum in the courtroom and the premises of both the Manatee County Judicial Center and Historic Courthouse.
- Providing individual security for 16 judges, 3 magistrates, and 1 hearing officer while in the courtroom or as needed.
- Effect arrest of wanted persons, remand defendants into custody and confiscate contraband when necessary
- Prisoner movement within the Judicial Center, approximately 8,000 inmates per year.
- Assume responsibilities for coordinating all emergency responses; medical, fire, and building evacuations.
- Monitor security equipment for potential threats to the buildings and persons in and around them.
- Act as a liaison between the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and the following;
• Chief Judge of the 12th Judicial Circuit
• Judges, magistrates, and judicial assistants
• Clerk of Court and employees
• Court Administration employees
• Attorneys
• Manatee County Government
• Various court ordered programs and dozens of other local, state and federal entities
