Hi all,
Does anyone know if Walton or Okaloosa utilizes Reserve Police Officers? I know that in alot of counties around the country the reserves are utilized after thorough training and ect. Thanks.
Anthony
Anthony, to answer your question, up 'til 2005, the Walton County Sheriff's Office utilized it's
ONE active auxillary police officer on almost a daily basis. After reading the brochure that I made, he volunteered to post himself at the beach and give them out to visitors to the area. He was also very active with riding with the full time officers. The Lt. in charge of the reserves would also be as active as he could. For unknown reasons, Sheriff Johnson never increased or actively sought members to increase the reserve unit, even though I questioned the lack of members in our reserve unit, and suggested he do so and gave reasons why.
When elected, it is my intention to have a minimum thirty man reserve unit, as I know from experience the invaluable assistance a reserve unit can be. NOT ONLY TO THE SHERIFF'S OFFICE, BUT MOST OF ALL TO THE RESIDENTS OF THE COUNTY. In emergency situations while deputies are preventing looting or other criminal activities during a mandatory evacuation, the reserve units will be directing citizens to safety. After the evacuation, they will be utilized before and after the emergency (such as a hurricane), to assist road patrol and to protect the property of the citizens. Reserve Units will also be utilized for special events, to beef up road patrol when needed, i.e. spring break, DUI checkpoints and other situations where deemed necessary.
And yes, Charlie Morris does utilize his reserve unit and his posse unit, as he, as a leader, recognizes the tremendous value of these outstanding volunteers!
For those who do not know what a reserve unit is. A reserve unit is made up of certified officers, (former full time officers or full time auxillary officers who volunteer their time and their service to the community). They respond to calls and take an active role while receiving no pay or compensation.
Anthony, I hope this answers your question.
