2018 is going to be an exciting year for the Indiana Sheriffs, the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association and all its members. Sheriffs have become more active not only in their local communities but also at the state and federal levels. Building Communities of Trust, must have the entire package. Sheriffs have recognized what happens in our neighbor’s home can and will affect our home, the home we are sworn to protect. Sheriffs in Indiana, know that in order to have a strong community of trust, the traditional reactionary response must turn to be more proactive. Sheriffs are engaging our citizens today more than ever to work in partnership. Together we are having a positive impact; together we are making a difference.

Indiana Sheriffs continue to be active in the state legislature. Working close with our legislators is an important part of being the Sheriff. This legislative session has our attention on many things. Sentence reform has brought low-level felons back to our local communities. Acute mentally ill are in our jails without proper treatment options more than ever. This has created over-crowding in some jails and the need for counties to seek solutions. The Sheriffs are working close with state officials and legislators to improve upon these difficulties. This effort increases public safety while reducing the burden it is creating on local taxpayers.

Quality and up to date training of our deputies, jail staff, and administrative offices will be a large focus as we move forward in 2018. It must encompass the entire Sheriffs’ office. Court rulings, law changes, and simple procedures with new technology make for a constant need for crucial training. The ISA is a strong resource for Sheriffs and their staff providing training agendas for these current issues. Leadership, operations, investigations, narcotics training, jail training, sex offender registry, proper records keeping/release, employment law, and keeping current with state accounting practices are few of what will be available. This valuable resource ensures a more efficient and effective service by the Sheriff.

2018 will also bring the release of the digital platform for the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association. This will mean for all members the availability to do everything with ISA in a digital format. Memberships, membership renewal, newsletters, and special alerts will become available on your computer, smart phone or tablet. We will still maintain the same quality U.S. Mail outreach and the choice will be yours, whichever way you prefer. It will be a great addition for keeping current on what is happening with your Indiana Sheriff.

As your 2018 President, I am committed to moving the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association and the office of Sheriff forward. It is our mission to serve with excellence and work in partnership with those we serve. Everyone in Indiana deserves to feel safe, and your Sheriff is working hard to accomplish that. I encourage everyone to partner with their Sheriff and the Indiana Sheriffs’ Association with achieving a strong Community of Trust and a safe state for all Hoosiers to enjoy!