JUSTIN MARTIN LCSO Deputy Katie Gallant was recognized by the Greater Lehigh Acres Chamber of Commerce at its monthly luncheon. Michelle Graham, right, presented the Officer of the Month award with Lt. Mark Shelby.

Lee County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Katie Gallant was recently honored for her drug arrests and for helping other deputies understand local drug trafficking.

At its monthly luncheon on April 25, the Greater Lehigh Acres Chamber of Commerce recognized Gallant as its Officer of the Month. She serves as a community policing deputy with the East District.

On April 13, Gallant was on duty when she saw a suspicious individual inside of a vehicle parked outside of a suspected drug house, according to officials. When Gallant approached the car, one of the occupants inside of the vehicle took flight, but she was able to catch him and take him into custody.

When Gallant searched the car, she found 20 grams of heroin, along with crack and cocaine.

Officials reported that Gallant ended up arresting three people on narcotics charges. She also wrote up an intelligence debriefing to help other deputies better understand drug trafficking in Lee County.

Michelle Graham, owner of Siesta Pebble, presented Gallant with the award.

During the luncheon, Graham announced her candidacy for the Florida House District 79 seat, which is held by Matt Caldwell. Caldwell has been term-limited and cannot run for re-election.

Graham, a Republican who lives in North Fort Myers, said that while she has not previously held any elected office, she has had plenty of business experience and has sat on a number of local boards.

“My passion is really community and service,” she said. “I feel like it’s time for me to get off the sidelines and try to affect change and follow in Caldwell’s steps, who I have the upmost respect.”

“I think he has done a great job,” she added.

According to Graham, announcing her candidacy early allows her plenty of time to attend events like the chamber luncheon to meet and talk with local residents and leaders and listen to their concerns.

Asked about her priorities if elected, she said smaller government is the name of the game.

“I just want to continue focusing on free enterprise and making sure we keep our government small – lessen regulations to continue to let Lee County thrive,” Graham said.

The chamber will hold its free monthly Lunch and Learn on May 9 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Florida Community Bank will cover how to obtain a mortgage.

The next luncheon will be held on May 30 at 11 a.m. at EmJay’s Tavern & Grill. Cost is $20 for chamber members and guests.