How One Deputy's Viral Patrols Earned National Recognition

PINAL COUNTY, AZ - Pinal County Sheriff’s Deputy Frank Sloup recounted his unexpected journey from routine patrols to becoming a well-known figure on social media in a recent interview.

His blend of humor and dedication to the badge has drawn millions of views online and earned him nominations for one of law enforcement’s most prestigious honors.

“You see that cameraman right there?… Yeah, he’s out there doing his cameraman thing and I’m out here doing a deputy thing,” Frank joked early in the conversation, highlighting the mix of law enforcement and media that has come to define his work.

When asked how it all began, Frank explained, “It started here mainly with Pinal County. [I'm] just coming up on 24 years on, and in the inception of my career, social media wasn’t really a thing in the early 2000s as much as it is now. But here with the sheriff’s office under the previous administration under Sheriff Mark Lamb, he was big; his nickname was Sheriff Hollywood. So he really liked… a presence on social media.”

That initiative gave rise to “Fridays with Frank,” an online series that follows his encounters on the road.

What began as an outreach tool soon exploded into a viral channel. 

“Once that started, it took off,” Frank said, reflecting on how the program connected him directly with people in his community and beyond.

Despite the humor and viral moments, Frank emphasized that the mission is rooted in service. “I appreciate it, man. Be safe,” he told a passerby, a reminder that safety and connection remain central to the job.

Now, that same combination of community engagement and dedication to duty has earned Frank and others recognition at the upcoming Great American Warrior Award ceremony.

The awards highlight individuals who go beyond the badge, embodying courage, creativity, and compassion in their service.

“Social media wasn’t really a thing when I started,” Frank said, “but if we can use it now to reach people, to show them who we are, then that’s worth it.”

His story, like those of his fellow nominees, shows how law enforcement continues to evolve, finding new ways to protect, serve, and inspire.

Nominations for the Next Generation of Protectors campaign, in partnership with Law Enforcement Today and Galls.com, are open now through October 31, 2025.

Help us spotlight the top 30 officers under 30 by submitting the name of a young officer who inspires you, whether it’s a first-year rookie or a seasoned officer still under 30. We want to hear their story. 

All nominees will be automatically entered for the Young Officer Award presented by GALLS at the National Law Enforcement Officer Hall of Fame induction ceremony in April 2026.