STATEMENT BY GOVERNOR CHARLIE CRIST REGARDING THE DEPARTURE OF DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN AND FAMILIES SECRETARY BOB BUTTERWORTH

August 15, 2008

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GOVERNOR’S PRESS OFFICE
(850) 488-5394

“Today, we say thank you and best wishes to Bob Butterworth, who has worked tirelessly for the past 19 months on behalf of Florida’s children and families. The Department of Children and Families is a more open place because of Bob and his determination to serve families with urgency and care.

“For 35 years he has dedicated himself to serving the people of Florida — as a sheriff, as a judge, and as Attorney General. He served as our top law enforcement official for 16 years, making him not just the longest-serving in Florida history but the best. He is the definition of a true public servant. He is a role model for all of us, and he will be missed.

“Also, today I am appointing George Sheldon to serve as interim Secretary of the Department of Children and Families. George has served as assistant secretary under Bob and will continue the hard work of his predecessor.”