PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
The origin of the Sheriff is dated back to the 9th century England, making it the oldest continuing, non-military, law enforcement entity in world history. There is a certain distinction and reverence held in the Office of Sheriff that is recognized nationwide, and perhaps still worldwide. Each of us, all 92 Indiana Sheriffs, are honored to serve as your County’s Sheriff. And I am honored to be chosen by my colleagues to serve as your 2023 Indiana Sheriff’s Association President.
As we enter into 2023, some Indiana Sheriffs are beginning their first term. I would like to welcome Indiana’s forty-seven new Sheriffs, most of which I had the opportunity to meet at the “New Sheriff’s School” hosted by the ISA in early December. The remaining forty-five, like myself, are beginning their second term. I have had the pleasure of working with and getting to know them over the past four years. It was encouraging to watch this group come together at the recent training. And it was reassuring seeing the enthusiasm and potential for each Sheriff as they step into their new role or continue to develop their office during their second term.
While helping with this training, I reflected on earlier days in my professional career. I recall learning, during my time in the academy, of ancient warriors who followed a sequence of rules or philosophical code comprised of integrity, courage, benevolence, respect, honesty, honor, and loyalty. These fundamental values remain the cornerstones of responsible law enforcement today. As the Sheriff, and chief law enforcement officer of your county, we represent and safeguard these values.
The Indiana Sheriff has stood strong against the unprecedented adversities thrown at us over the past few years. We have not only overcome, but often led the way during these turbulent times. This is because of the great leadership of those who took the oath of Sheriff. Collaboration among those great leaders and best training available, made possible through the Indiana Sheriff’s Association, combined to provide the highest quality of service to our respective communities and the State.
It has been proven many times over that as a group we are stronger together. When we share, teach, learn, come to the aid of and support each other, we will continue to be leaders providing the best professional service to our counties. And as an association, we speak with one voice, representing and safeguarding our freedom, the rule of law, and the American way of life.
Sincerely,
Randy Retter
Wayne County Sheriff
2023 ISA President
