This is a mess
Deputies can't lodge a complaint. They will be dismissed for any simple mistake they might make on the job. In my time here, I have learned that Walton County politics runs on fear, and deep roots in the communty.
Those of us (deputies) with families can't complain. We, like most police officers, live paycheck to paycheck. If fired, our families would suffer. Its up to you, the public, to complain to the governor's office and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement about the misuse of tax dollars and the mistreatment of deputies. We can't afford it. Hell, we don't even get paid overtime for working over, going to court, etc. Thats just time lost.
And yes, parking the car at the station instead of paying the fee will get you dismissed. And by the way, I've had to take enough police action in that car on my way home to justify taking it home. Whats next? A fee for my gun? My badge or gear?
To the person that suggested unionization. Yes, that would be ideal, but again the brave soul that would get that wheel rolling would be out of a job. Unions in law enforcement protect officers from reprisals when their job steps on "important people's" toes, ie stopping the sheriff's cousin for DUI. (just an example)
The problem is, it would take an EXTREMELY professional, forward thinking law enforement officer as sheriff to be humble enough to give up some power to a union. The current Sheriff is drunk with power. I hope the next one, whoever he may be, is willing to share it with his people.