WCSO CAPTAIN DUSTIN COSSON AWARDED 40 UNDER 40 RECOGNITION BY UNITED WAY EMERALD COAST

On Friday, September 27th, Dustin Cosson, Captain of the Walton County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Bureau, along with 39 other individuals were recognized for their leadership, community involvement, and professional accomplishments by UWEC Emerging Leaders.

Employed with the Sheriff’s Office since 2009, Captain Cosson has served in many capacities at the sheriff’s office including investigations, patrol, internal investigations, and as an active member of the S.W.A.T Team.

In June 2023, he graduated from the prestigious Federal Bureau of Investigations National Academy in Virginia.

Cosson has held many positions as a board member for non-profits such as Shelter House of Northwest Florida, Mainstreet DeFuniak Springs, United Way Emerald Coast, and participates in the South Walton High School Criminal Justice Advisory Counsel.

As a Walton County native, Cosson has received numerous accolades over his career including a Florida House of Representatives Commendation in July 2012, Deputy of the Quarter in July 2013 and August 2016, and Walton Area Chamber Young Professional of the Year in 2022.

“I’m truly humbled to be one of the 40 leaders honored with this recognition,” said Cosson. “It represents far more than just professional success; it acknowledges the impact we can make in our own communities.”

According to United Way Emerald Coast, the process of selecting our 40 Under 40 nominees is a multi-step procedure that starts with an open nomination process, allowing the public to nominate individuals who they believe deserve recognition.

After receiving nominations, UWEC reaches out to the nominated individuals, inviting them to submit applications.

Then a dedicated selection committee meticulously reviews applications to identify the top 40 honorees who must be between the ages of 21 and 40 and either reside or work in Okaloosa or Walton County.

“This recognition speaks to Captain Cosson’s vested interest in improving the Walton County community,” said Sheriff Michael Adkinson. “He is a leader and excels in not only the public safety arena but in those with the best interest of Walton County in mind.”