Michael Dilks · Sheriff 2028
A U.S. Army veteran with 26 years of service — 23 of them protecting Indian River County — now running for Sheriff in 2028.
About Michael Dilks
Michael Dilks is a devoted husband, father of four, and proud grandfather to one granddaughter. He and his wife — a fellow law enforcement officer — have dedicated their lives to serving their community and keeping families safe.
Michael moved to Vero Beach in 1993 and has called Indian River County home ever since. After high school, he answered the call to serve his country in the U.S. Army, serving with the 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment from 1996 to 1999 — proudly carrying on the unit's legendary “Geronimo!” tradition.
Career & Service
Following his military service, Michael built a law-enforcement career spanning more than two decades — moving through nearly every demanding role the profession has to offer.
509th Parachute Infantry Regiment · 1996–1999
Frontline community policing on the road
Undercover narcotics, street crimes & major investigations
Tactical operations & Field Training Deputy
Federal narcotics enforcement
Fugitive Task Force
One of numerous awards and commendations earned across his career — including multiple life-saving awards.
Michael Dilks
Paid for and approved by Michael Dilks, Republican, for Indian River County Sheriff.
Where Michael Stands
Michael believes the Sheriff's Office belongs to the people. His experience has given him firsthand knowledge of the challenges facing law enforcement, and reinforced the importance of transparency, accountability, and strict adherence to the Constitution.
Public trust is earned through open communication, common-sense leadership, and a genuine commitment to serving the citizens of Indian River County.
Michael is committed to ensuring deputies are highly trained, physically fit, and prepared to respond when citizens need them most. Law enforcement professionals perform at their highest level when they are backed by strong leadership, quality training, modern resources, and clear expectations.
The deputies are the face of the Sheriff's Office — not the Sheriff. The Sheriff's job is to provide the leadership, training, support, and resources they need to succeed. When deputies are valued, appreciated, and heard, they are better prepared to serve the community.
Michael believes criminals should be aggressively pursued and held accountable, while the rights of law-abiding citizens are always protected. He supports proactive policing, thorough investigations, and focusing resources on violent offenders, repeat offenders, drug traffickers, sex offenders, human traffickers, and those who prey on the community.
He also recognizes that effective traffic enforcement is essential to public safety — maintaining a visible traffic enforcement presence is paramount to keeping the roads of Indian River County safe for residents and visitors alike.
Michael is running for Sheriff to put his experience, leadership, and commitment to public service to work for the citizens of Indian River County. His goal is simple: build an agency that earns the public's trust through transparency and accountability, supports its deputies, protects constitutional rights, and delivers the level of service the community deserves.
The Sheriff's Office belongs to the people.
— Michael Dilks
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