Kirstie Cantelmo
Safety Harbor,FL
Summary
Well-rounded and mission-driven Sergeant with a strong foundation in correctional leadership, team development, and operational oversight. Proven ability to lead diverse teams with integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to upholding agency standards. Combines a strong work ethic with advanced administrative skills and a results-oriented mindset to drive performance, streamline processes, and support agency goals. Known for innovative problem-solving, effective mentorship, and ensuring strict adherence to policies and procedures. Dedicated to fostering a culture of accountability, growth, and excellence at every level of the organization.
Overview
14
14
years of professional experience
Work History
Sergeant
Pinellas County Sheriff's Office
Clearwater, FL
02.2019 - Current
- Promoted to the rank of Sergeant and assigned to North Division, assuming leadership responsibilities in multiple high-demand housing areas.
- Supervised Squad 3 (Healthcare Clinic and C-Barracks) and Squad 1 (Second Floor) in North Division, ensuring operational efficiency and safety.
- Assigned to South Division for six months, overseeing Squad 4, which included 2F, Lower Gulf, and Upper Gulf housing units.
- Frequently served as Acting Shift Commander in both North and South Divisions, effectively managing shift-wide operations.
- Led responses to critical incidents as Acting Shift Commander, including multiple Use of Force events and the activation of the Corrections Response Team.
- Demonstrated strong leadership, decision-making, and organizational skills to streamline operations and maintain staff accountability.
- Conducted annual performance evaluations for a large team of staff, ensuring fair assessment and goal alignment.
- Mentored subordinates and supported their professional development in alignment with departmental values and expectations.
- Transferred to the Administrative Investigation Division (AID) in October 2020 to expand leadership experience and deepen knowledge of internal agency procedures.
- Conducted both formal and informal investigations into allegations against agency members, honing advanced investigative and documentation skills.
- Contributed to the creation and implementation of onboarding and training materials for new sergeants assigned to AID.
- Voluntarily transferred back to the Department of Detention and Corrections in January 2023 to further develop as a first-line supervisor; assigned to South Division A-Days.
- Selected in July 2023 for the newly created Sergeant position within the Specialist Unit, where I currently serve.
- Participated in the creation and oversight of departmental budgets for the Department of Detention and Corrections.
- Managed department funds and supervised procurement of essential supplies to support operations.
- Played a key role in developing the Family Reunification Taskforce (RTF), a critical resource for emergency preparedness and response.
- Oversaw all logistical operations of the Family Reunification Taskforce (RTF), including equipment maintenance, deployment planning and coordination, post-operation recovery, and the development of detailed operational maps for each deployment to guide staff execution.
- Directed the execution of both large- and small-scale projects, including: construction of the Rapid DNA counter, outfitting of the Crowd Management Team bus, major fentanyl decontamination efforts in C-Barracks, hurricane recovery operations across the DDC compound, and desalination of approximately 700 agency vehicles impacted by saltwater exposure during hurricane related flooding.
Corporal Appointment
Pinellas County Sherriff's Office
Clearwater, FL
01.2017 - 02.2019
- I attended and successfully completed the Crisis Intervention Team C.I.T. Training and the Supervisory Development Program.
- I began to grow and develop as a first line supervisor by providing direction to my subordinates and assisting my supervisors with their duties.
- I was assigned in North Division and South Division.
- In January 2019 I was transferred to the Support Division Corporal position. Where I provided tours to several groups, assisted with the OMS project and completed other duties as required.
Detention Deputy
Pinellas County Sherriff's Office
Clearwater, FL
10.2011 - 01.2017
- I completed the Corrections Academy in February 2012.
- I completed the Corrections Response Team Academy in May 2014 and was activated the same year. I was a dedicated team member for over six (6) years.
- I was nominated and awarded a Gold Star in May 2015 for my part in a Code 99 incident.
- I was assigned in North Division, Central Division and South Division.
Education
Some College (No Degree) - Corrections Academy
St. Petersburg College
Clearwater, FLSome College (No Degree) - Minimum Standards Fire Academy
Hillsborough Community College
Tampa, FLSome College (No Degree) - Emergency Medical Technology
St. Petersburg College
Clearwater, FLSkills
- Skilled in conflict resolution
- Observant
- Effective team leader
- Tactical knowledge
- Extremely organized
- Strong verbal and written communication
- Interpersonal Communication
- Report Writing
- Safety and security oriented
- Personnel supervision
- Critical thinking
- Staff Development and Training
- Decision Making
Timeline
Sergeant
Pinellas County Sheriff's Office
02.2019 - Current
Corporal Appointment
Pinellas County Sherriff's Office
01.2017 - 02.2019
Detention Deputy
Pinellas County Sherriff's Office
10.2011 - 01.2017
Some College (No Degree) - Corrections Academy
St. Petersburg College
Some College (No Degree) - Minimum Standards Fire Academy
Hillsborough Community College
Some College (No Degree) - Emergency Medical Technology
St. Petersburg College
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