Captain Rachel Montgomery

Born and raised in Citrus County, Rachel graduated from Citrus High School in 2007 and immediately began her career with the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office as a Communications Officer. Over the past 18 years, She has served in a variety of roles, including Communications Officer, Training Officer, Terminal Agency Coordinator, Patrol Deputy, Domestic Violence Detective, Behavioral Health Sergeant, Supervisor of Threat Management, Police Chief and now Captain over School Safety and Security.

She holds a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice Administration and is a graduate of the Saint Leo University Command Officer Management Course. She is also an FBI-LEEDA Trilogy recipient and a graduate of the Florida Police Chiefs Association Chiefs Training.

Throughout her career, she has been honored with several recognitions, including the FCADV Mellie McDaniel Award (2019), Deputy Sheriff of the Year (2021), 40 Under Forty recipient (2023), and the Mandi Warren Richards Rising Star Award (2024).

As the Captain over School Safety and Security, she is responsible for ensuring the safety of approximately 15,000 students and 3,000 staff members of the Citrus County School District. Her leadership philosophy centers on empowerment—equipping our security teams and school staff with the knowledge, confidence, and judgment to make thoughtful and safe decisions that protect our school communities.

Outside of her professional career, Rachel is devoted to her family and community.  She is married and the proud mother of two children.  Her husband also serves the community as a Deputy Sheriff with the Citrus County Sheriff's Office.  When not at work, she enjoys spending time with her family, cheering on her children at their sporting events, and volunteering with numerous community organizations.