A Legacy of Leadership: J.M. “Buddy” Phillips, Part 3

Jason Futch reporter2.riverbendnews@gmail.com As J.M. “Buddy” Phillips wrapped up his three weeks at the Glades County Sheriff’s Office, it appeared that he would be able to settle back in his position as Director of Mutual Aid with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). However, Governor Bob Graham would call on the travel-weary Phillips to handle a dire situation in Columbia County. On April 18, 1984, Columbia County Sheriff Steve Spradley was indicted on charges stemming from a major drug investigation. He was arrested and stripped of his title as sheriff, leaving Governor Graham to consider an interim replacement until he could find a more permanent leader. Whe