Sgt. Walker Update, Oct. 16, 2019

All right, the Sheriff is on me to write something for this section of our web site. Apparently, many of you (read 2) have inquired about my column.

My problem is that I just need to sort out all the things I could write about.  However, I do have a favorite line from court. A patron had just tested positive for using an illegal substance when they told the court that they had not been using, but tested positive because their partner had been using drugs before sex. And somehow this caused them to have a positive test. I have always believed that the person who comes up with the most outlandish excuse should be given the benefit of the doubt just for creativity. The judge does not hold my opinion.

I have had a resurgence of Neighborhood Watch requests. This program has met with mixed results. Some neighborhoods have been very successful and others could never get off the ground. One stumbling block for several communities was that if the Sheriff's Office increased enforcement activities, then residents would not be able to drink and drive their golf carts. While some of you may scoff at this, it is apparently a very important social activity in some parts of the county.

Further, many communities had one or two issues that when resolved, lessened the interest to the Neighborhood Watch. It seems that often one or two individuals or houses can get members of community interested, but once resolved, interest fades.

I would argue that involved groups of neighbors who are interested in their community and willing to take corrective actions are much more effective fixing problems and preventing crime issues than waiting for situations to get out of hand.

People who know their neighbors and are able to give a helping hand, keep communities connected and improve life for the entire area. This cohesiveness also improves the ability of local law enforcement to do their jobs, keeping their jurisdictions safe.

Sgt. Storm Walker