History of Florida Railroad Police and Special Officers
Historic Special Officer Commission – State of Florida
Historically, Special Officers protecting transportation systems in Florida were formally commissioned by the State of Florida. These commissions recognized the officer’s authority to serve as a Special Officer for a specific common carrier and to exercise the powers granted under Florida law.
Today, under Chapter 354, Florida Statutes, the authority to appoint Special Officers rests with the common carrier itself. Carriers designate Special Officers to protect their operations, passengers, employees, cargo, and transportation infrastructure.
Greyhound Bus Lines Special Police
Passenger transportation companies such as Greyhound Bus Lines historically appointed Special Officers to protect terminals, passengers, employees, and company property. These officers operated under authority recognized by state law and focused specifically on transportation safety.
Southern Railway Police
Railroads historically maintained their own police departments responsible for protecting rail yards, freight shipments, infrastructure, and railroad operations. Railroad police were among the earliest forms of transportation-focused law enforcement in the United States.
Historic Transportation Law Enforcement
Transportation systems have relied on specialized law enforcement officers for more than a century. Railroads, passenger carriers, and freight companies appointed officers responsible for protecting transportation infrastructure and investigating crimes affecting their operations.
These officers were commonly known as:
• Railroad Police
• Special Agents
• Special Officers
Their authority was tied to protecting the transportation system they served.