With just hours left in 2020 (we’re almost there!), we’ve been reflecting on the achievements of a year like no other — when time spent at home felt endless, when life had a way of bringing everything into perspective, and when our courageous front-line workers risked their health and lives to protect ours.
In a year when the weight of the world seemed overwhelming, there were many bright spots for our agency and the residents we serve. Here are some big ones:
- We avoided a potentially catastrophic COVID-19 outbreak in the county jail despite a rise in the jail population and a surge in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in the community.
- In response to an increase in street racing and road rage incidents, we established a Traffic Crimes Unit centered on every aspect of racing culture, street takeovers, and stunt driving. Report racing-related activities to TrafficCrimesUnit@Sheriff.hctx.net.
- We launched Project Guardian to improve our interactions and calls for service involving persons on the autism spectrum. Click here to register a loved one.
- We expanded our telehealth program that provides patrol deputies with in-hand access to a behavioral health clinician via an iPad.
- In addition to the 40-hour mental health training course at our academy, we implemented a proven de-escalation training and scenario-based program for patrol deputies and detention officers.
- We created Crime Reduction Units in all five patrol districts tasked with proactively addressing public safety issues unique to each community they serve.
- We launched a Behavioral Threat Management Unit to tackle a key component of domestic violence – stalking. The goal of the unit is to prevent volatile situations from escalating into harm or violence.
- We developed a Flood Rescue Unit to respond to rescue calls during flooding events and devoted more resources to swift water training and high-water equipment. The unit has more than 70 trained members.
- We became the first law enforcement agency in our area to implement a “cite and release” policy that has decreased the number of people jailed for low-level, non-violent crimes while still holding them accountable.
- We established the agency’s first-ever Behavioral Health Division, led by highly qualified mental health professionals, that offers a wide range of consultation and counseling services to our employees and their immediate families.
- Our five patrol districts have started hosting virtual safety forums led by the area’s captain and sergeant with support and updates from various agency leaders. Click here to sign up to be notified about your district’s next meeting.
These accomplishments are the byproduct of our commitment to better serve you and the countless relationships and partnerships we’ve developed within our communities. Your readership and support mean a lot to us. We’ve had a challenging year, and like you, we look forward to better days in the coming weeks and months ahead.
With an important year on our horizon, the need for compassion remains. A world rooted in compassion and admirable empathy is a crucial piece in building a community resilient to challenges.
I miss seeing people’s smiles and gathering in-person at community events. Let’s continue to stay the course and be kind and support each other.
Wishing you a safe and joyous New Year!