County: Search and Rescue is completely separate

A newly-formed search and rescue group may be causing more heartache than help, according to county officials.

In a release issued by the Santa Rosa County Emergency Management Division, officials allege that Santa Rosa Volunteer Search and Rescue Inc., has hired a private company to solicit donations door-to-door to assist their organization.

"(The organization) is not something that is supported by Santa Rosa County," said Brad Baker, the emergency management division's operations and training chief. "We don't want residents to give money to the organization under the pretence it's supported by the county."

By supported, Baker explained that the organization was not affiliated nor financially aided by the county.

For more on this story, see the Oct. 7 issue of the Navarre Press or subscribe online.