Passerby finds body of deputy – ruled suicide

A highly decorated member of the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office took his own life early this morning on the grounds of Hero’s Park in Palm Coast, according to information received by Historic City News.

Just after 7:30 a.m., the Sheriff’s Office received a phone call from a passerby who discovered the body of 50-year-old Joseph P. Delarosby of Palm Coast; beneath a tree in the park, the victim of a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators located his vehicle in a parking area adjacent to the memorial for fallen law enforcement and fire personnel.

“On behalf of the agency I would like to express my sincere condolences to Joe’s family,” said Sheriff James L. Manfre. “He was a well-respected deputy and our thoughts and prayers go out to those who served with him,” he added.

Delarosby started his career with the Sheriff’s Office in March 1995. Throughout his 19 years of service, Delarosby worked in the agency’s uniformed patrol division, Civil Process and most recently as a Bailiff in Court Services.

Over the course of his career, he received numerous awards and accolades including 27 agency commendations, 12 Certificates of Appreciation and 13 personal letter of appreciation.