I have lived and worked in Punta Gorda since 1996. While I may be a bit biased (because I love it here so much!), the numbers tell the truth. Punta Gorda has consistently been ranked as the second safest city in Florida, comparing cities of our size. Just recently, an article was published that showed regardless of size they ranked us as #5 in the entire state!
The Punta Gorda Police department was first accredited in 1998. They were the eleventh municipal police agency within the State of Florida to achieve this honor. The Police Department achieved re-accredited status after undergoing successful assessment processes in 2001, 2004, 2007, 2010, and now 2013. On June 27, 2013, the Punta Gorda Police Department received Excelsior Recognition with the completion of 5 successful re-accreditations. Our Police department is very active in our community with the citizens, children, and businesses. This past year they were awarded the Pinnacle Business of the Year award from the Punta Gorda Chamber.