Osceola County Swears In 14-Year-Old "DJ" Daniel as Honorary Deputy

Devarjaye “D.J.” Daniel was officially sworn in as an Honorary Deputy Sheriff  / Photo credit: Osceola County Sheriff’s Office

By Staff Reporter

iSkyNews.com (ISN) – Published May 9th, 2026

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A Badge of Courage: Osceola County Swears In 14-Year-Old "DJ" Daniel as Honorary Deputy

KISSIMMEE, FL — The Osceola County Sheriff’s Office gained a new brother in arms today, and he might just be the toughest deputy on the force.

In a heartfelt ceremony led by Sheriff Christopher Blackmon, 14-year-old Devarjaye “D.J.” Daniel was officially sworn in as an Honorary Deputy Sheriff. D.J., a Texas native, arrived in Florida with his father, Theodis, to continue a mission that has captured hearts across the country: a lifelong dream of joining the ranks of law enforcement.

Since 2018, D.J. has been locked in a relentless battle against brain and spinal cancer. Despite enduring multiple surgeries and the grueling physical toll of his diagnosis, his spirit remains unbroken. Instead of focusing on his own challenges, D.J. has dedicated his energy to a singular goal—getting sworn into as many police and sheriff agencies as possible to raise awareness and spread a message of hope.

"DJ’s positive spirit and unwavering dedication remind us all what true heroism looks like," the Sheriff’s Office shared in a statement. "His courage lifts up our entire community and every first responder who stands with him."

Photo credit: Osceola County Sheriff’s Office  

The ceremony was filled with symbols of his new rank. Photos from the event show D.J. proudly wearing a tailored uniform, his chest adorned with honorary badges, including a special Semiquincentennial 1776–2026 commemorative star. Standing alongside Sheriff Blackmon and other local law enforcement leaders, D.J. stood tall, a stark reminder of the resilience that defines his journey.

By joining the Osceola County family, D.J. continues to add to a staggering list of hundreds of agencies nationwide that have welcomed him into their "thin blue line" family. For the men and women who serve Osceola County, the day wasn't just about a ceremony; it was a lesson in strength from a young man who defines the word "hero" differently than most.

Welcome to the family, Deputy Daniel.

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