Chief Deputy Jose Docobo presented the check to Commissioner Rose Ferlita, the driving force behind the Bully Busters program, at the Board of County Commissioners meeting at County Center in downtown Tampa.

The donation comes from asset forfeitures seized by the sheriff's office.

"We are using money seized from criminals to hopefully prevent what could lead to other crimes," said Chief Deputy Docobo said. "We feel privileged to be able to support this project. We believe Bully Busters is a much needed program."

The money will be used for services and events for children to help stamp out bullying. The Bully Busters program includes public awareness, education, intervention and community support.

"I can't thank Sheriff David Gee enough for his support and financial contribution," Commissioner Rose Ferlita said. "The Bully Busters campaign that I initiated, with the support of my colleagues, is essential to protect our children from bullying attacks. No tax dollars, zero tolerance, and a total community effort."

Fifty bus benches with the Bully Busters logo and the Crimestoppers of Tampa Bay tip line have been placed in strategic locations around the county that are frequented by children and teenagers.

In addition to the benches,10,000 Bully Buster bookmarks and 500 posters are being distributed. Hillsborough Television (HTV) has also produced public service announcements that are airing on HTV as well as several cable channels that appeal to young viewers including Animal Planet, the Cartoon Network, Discovery Channel, MTV and Nickelodeon. The project is funded through state justice grants and this donation.

Media only, contact: Carol Michel, Community Relations Coordinator, (813) 276-2033, cell phone (813) 426-2494.