From Edwin Baron
In November 2025, Apopka residents Edwin and Yesenia Baron learned through Apopka public resources that the Town of Eatonville had requested assistance from the Apopka Police Department to conduct fingerprinting for prospective Eatonville Police Department candidates and municipal employees.
The request was part of an intergovernmental effort to meet background-screening requirements, which are mandatory for law enforcement and certain city positions. Fingerprinting submissions must comply with state and federal regulations and are processed through the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE).
After learning of the request, the Barons opted to provide direct assistance to Eatonville. The couple wished to donate a Guardian LiveScan fingerprinting system, along with the required supporting equipment, to the Eatonville Police Department, an approximate donation of $12,000.
The Barons contacted Eatonville Police Chief Stanley Murray to discuss the donation. According to the Barons, Chief Murray expressed appreciation and indicated the equipment would be a valuable addition to departmental operations.
The LiveScan system was delivered to the Eatonville Police Department in December 2025. The department is coordinating with the service provider to activate the system, and FDLE has issued the required nomenclature to integrate the equipment into the state’s fingerprinting and background-check network.
LiveScan technology allows law enforcement agencies to electronically capture and transmit fingerprints, offering faster processing times and greater accuracy than traditional ink-based methods. The systems are commonly used for officer hiring, licensing, and employment background checks.
The Barons said the donation was intended to support public safety operations and encourage regional cooperation. They noted that providing the equipment would help the Eatonville Police Department conduct fingerprinting internally and reduce reliance on outside agencies.
Intergovernmental cooperation and private donations have historically played a role in supporting public safety services, particularly in smaller municipalities. Officials have said such partnerships can help departments improve efficiency while limiting additional costs to local governments.
Additional information regarding the system’s activation and use is expected to be released through official Eatonville Police Department communications.
