EMPOWERING TOMORROW’S PROTECTORS: A GLIMPSE INTO LAW ENFORCEMENT CAREERS ON LEXINGTON COUNTY’S SHADOW DAY

While most of us recognize Feb. 2 as Groundhog Day, in Lexington County, Feb. 2 is celebrated in a unique way– Shadow Day. For the past 12 years, Shadow Day has been dedicated to giving middle and high school students from Lexington County schools a firsthand look into the world of law enforcement and officers at the LCSD Training Center.

The Day Unfolds:

On Feb. 2, 2024, approximately 70 students from local schools seized the opportunity to get a glimpse into the careers of Lexington County Sheriff’s Department deputies. The day kicked off with a welcome from Sheriff Jay Koon, setting the tone for an immersive experience. Students were then divided into groups, providing them with the chance to rotate through different department teams, including Crime Scene Investigators and the Public Information Office. Along with this, a special presentation and orientation with the K-9 Unit was a highlight within the Shadow Day schedule.

“Students are our future,” Sheriff Koon said. “They’re an important and valuable resource we should protect and nourish. That’s what Shadow Day is all about. Equipping tomorrow’s leaders today.”

Educational Significance:

The importance of Shadow Day lies in its ability to cater to diverse learning styles.

“For a young person, it is easy to come in and be a visual learner as well as an audible learner. Not everyone learns the same way… this opportunity gives them a path of understanding of what direction they want to go into and might interest them,” Sgt. Lee Barrett said.

Shadow Day serves as a platform for students to witness the diversity among Lexington County Sheriff’s Department careers and how the team seamlessly operates as one agency.

Community Partnership and Opportunities:

The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department takes pride in being a community partner and extending the opportunity of Shadow Day to students who may not have alternative options. Sgt. Barrett emphasizes the avenues for education and partnerships with local schools, which highlight LCSD’s goals to ignite interest in law enforcement careers, fostering a sense of service and community engagement.

Recruiter Sgt. Dan Rusinyak reminds students that being a law enforcement officer is about more than just financial rewards– it’s a commitment to public service. By opening its doors to students, LCSD strives to share the rewarding nature of a career in law enforcement, emphasizing the flexibility to serve the community while planting roots in Lexington.

Seeding Opportunities at 18:

With some students nearing 18 years old, Shadow Day becomes a pivotal experience.

Sgt. Barrett underlines the importance of instilling a young mindset, providing an early glimpse into the world of law enforcement. The need for detention deputies at LCSD creates a tangible opportunity for students to join the force immediately after high school, potentially earning up to $50,000 a year and retiring after 28 years of service to the county.

A Call to Action:

Sgt. Barrett encourages students to “be an open-minded person when you visit the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department. This is not for everybody, and we realize that. This is why we want to allow those to see it.”

If you are passionate about making a positive impact and a career in law enforcement resonates with you, consider applying today to join the LCSD community. Embrace the opportunity to be part of a community that goes beyond a job, offering a fulfilling and impactful career.

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TAKING FLIGHT: MEET THE TEAM CONTROLLING THE DRONES AT LCSD

Law enforcement agencies began using drones for surveillance and various operational purposes in the early 2000s. Initially, drones were primarily used for military applications, but their adoption by law enforcement expanded as technology advanced and became more accessible.

In 2023, 61 percent of the police departments in South Carolina used drones, with 93 percent of those departments expecting their programs to grow.

In the ever-evolving landscape of law enforcement, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department has taken a bold step into the future with its innovative Drone Unit. At the forefront of this groundbreaking initiative is Investigator Bryan Senn, a Certified Part 107 Operator and a key member of the LCSD Drone Unit.

To dive deeper into the role of drones in law enforcement and their impact on the Lexington County community, we asked Inv. Senn a bit more about being a core member of the Drone Unit.

What is a Certified Part 107 Operator?

A Certified Part 107 Operator is more than just a drone enthusiast; it’s a professional designation granted by the Federal Aviation Administration. Senn, having successfully navigated the challenging certification process, stands as a testament to the dedication and expertise required for this role.

To obtain this certification, aspiring operators undergo a rigorous testing process that dives deep into aircraft knowledge, terminology and safety procedures. Senn describes the exam as one of the most demanding he’s faced, requiring a deep understanding of runway directions, weather codes and aviation language.

As a small unmanned aircraft systems, often referred to by the acronym SUAS, operator, Senn emphasizes the importance of this knowledge in ensuring the safety of both drone operators and traditional pilots. The FAA recognizes drones as aircrafts, highlighting the pivotal role SUAS operators play in the world of aviation.

Why did Senn choose this career path?

Senn’s love for technology and a keen interest in the evolving field of law enforcement inspired him to become a drone operator.
Bryan states joining this unit at LCSD “was a way to contribute and be on the cutting edge of technology and law enforcement” and would allow him to be part of “the next wave of the future” since there are many benefits to drone operations.

Being a drone operator offers a multi-faceted opportunity to enhance law enforcement efforts.

Senn says he “tells people all the time [that they] aren’t replacing boots on the ground, [rather they are] helping them do their jobs better”.

With this said, Senn stresses the role is complementary, not a replacement for traditional law enforcement methods. Drone operators act as an extra set of eyes in the sky, providing valuable assistance in various scenarios, from searching for missing persons to supporting the K-9 unit in high-risk situations.

How has the Drone Unit at Lexington County Sheriff’s Department evolved?

The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department Drone Unit officially took flight in late 2021, with roots in the SWAT Unit’s use of smaller drones. Senn explains their journey began with four certified pilots and has since expanded to eight collateral positions, showcasing the unit’s growth and adaptability.

Senn shares “flying an SUAS or SUAV is a perishable skill. If you set down the controller for long enough, it’s like trying to learn it all over again”.

Continuous learning is a cornerstone of the Drone Unit’s success. In-house training, collaboration with other agencies, and leveraging FAA educational resources keep the unit aware of the latest technologies and best practices.

What technologies does the Drone Unit work with?

The LCSD Drone Unit operates a diverse fleet, from indoor drones assigned to the SWAT Unit to large search and rescue drones. Equipped with zoom lenses and thermal capabilities, these drones empower the unit to swiftly and efficiently gather crucial data.

Live-streaming services and tracking programs further enhance the unit’s capabilities, providing real-time insights during operations. The integration of technology allows for precise geographic location pinpointing, saving valuable time and energy.

What does success look like as a Certified Part 107 Operator?

Reflecting on the successes of the Drone Unit, Senn highlights his role in assisting the K-9 Unit during tracks, specifically the use of thermal cameras and how they offer unique perspectives, ultimately contributing to successful mission outcomes.

“There’s been a lot of success as a Certified Part 107 Operator,” says Senn. “My role is more of an assisting collateral duty assignment, so a lot of it has been helping overwatch K-9 on tracks. A lot of the time, we are using thermal cameras, so we see a heat source and give the K-9 Unit a heads up”.

As the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department Drone Unit continues to evolve and demonstrate its capabilities, Senn is excited about the untapped potential within the career and community as a whole. The implementation of drone technology continues to grow and redefine what’s possible in law enforcement to ensure a safer community for all.

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JOIN THE ELITE CRISIS NEGOTIATION UNIT; WHERE COMPASSION MEETS SKILL

Are you seeking a role that pushes your boundaries, tests your abilities and places you at the forefront of resolving intense situations? Then look no further. The Crisis Negotiation Unit at the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department could be the team for you, where adrenaline meets empathy, and every negotiation is a chance to make a life-changing difference.

Right now, around the world, countless negotiations are underway, and the results will influence life and death.

“Our crisis negotiator unit’s top priority is de-escalating volatile life and death incidents. They use negotiation tactics to prevent injury or death during armed standoffs, suicide attempts, hostage situations, kidnappings and other high-pressure responses,” Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon said. “As certified law enforcement officers who take on this role as a collateral duty, they train in basic crisis negotiation fundamentals, case studies and scenario-based exercises. The unit is an important part of our efforts to protect our community.”

WHY CRISIS NEGOTIATION?

On average, 35 percent of crisis negotiation calls take between two-four hours.

“It’s been challenging, but in a good way. If we talk about good stress and bad stress, then it is good stress!” says Cameron Sherban, an officer of the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department Crisis Negotiation Unit. Although this unit’s actions are highly pressured, the time and efforts to resolve critical circumstances are very rewarding.

With their effective listening skills, patience, adaptability and determination, crisis negotiators can take complex situations and work through them in ways that not only benefit subjects and victims, but the community as a whole.

Jason Willoughby from South Carolina Criminal Justice Academy emphasizes the essence of these skills, stating, “Having the skills and ability to bring someone back to rationale, to a sense of normalcy, and to have a circumstance end peacefully, is everything that a law enforcement officer hopes for.”

Sherban sheds light on the urgency of the role, explaining how negotiators must grasp what a person needs to peacefully resolve a situation. He emphasizes the pivotal role of de-escalation, highlighting how crucial it is to bring individuals out of a crisis state before productive communication can occur.

Although they hope their skills are rarely needed, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department Crisis Negotiators stand ready when the call comes. The training, dedication and compassion instilled in every negotiator ensure they are equipped to handle any crisis with precision and empathy.

Joining the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department Crisis Negotiation Unit isn’t just a career choice; it’s an opportunity to be part of a select group dedicated to making a positive impact. If you’re someone who thrives under pressure, values empathy and seeks to be at the forefront of resolving critical incidents, visit the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department website to browse current jobs and apply online today.

At the heart of the Crisis Negotiation Unit is the comprehensive 40-hour certification course, a training program that equips negotiators with the tools and strategies to defuse crises. As explained by Willoughby, this training is critical in learning how to compromise – a skill indispensable in navigating tense circumstances.

In addition to the Crisis Negotiation Unit, you can explore other law enforcement divisions and opportunities available within the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department; there’s a place for every individual driven by a passion for serving and protecting the Lexington County community.

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SHOP WITH A COP: LEXINGTON COUNTY DEPUTIES TEAM UP WITH UNDERPRIVILEGED CHILDREN FOR ANNUAL HOLIDAY SHOPPING EVENT

With the holiday season in full swing, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department looks forward to its annual heartwarming event that not only brings joy to underprivileged children but also fosters a unique connection between the community and local law enforcement. “Shop With A Cop” aims to break down barriers and create a sense of trust between the children and officers.

“Shop With A Cop is an annual event we do in cooperation with Red Bank Wal-Mart in Lexington County where we connect with some of the underprivileged children in our area and we take them shopping,” Deputy Joel Cooper said.

The Festivities Begin:

The event kicks off with a breakfast where deputies and the children come together to get to know one another. Santa Claus makes a special appearance to spread the Christmas spirit and pass out candy. This welcoming setting helps lay the foundation for a morning filled with a sense of camaraderie and, most importantly, the opportunity for children to see the human side of officers in their community.

“It gives us an opportunity to interact with these children on a personal level and help them understand that we are human just like they are,” Cooper said.

Choosing Their Deputy and Hitting The Isles:

After breakfast, the children embark on a journey through Wal-Mart, armed with shopping lists and the guidance of their chosen deputy at their side.

Capt. Jenn Burns said the deputy and their child “go to the toy section first– the fun part [and] let them pick toys out”. From action figures to board games, the deputies witness the joy simple gifts can bring.

“…Then [we] go into the clothing section because that is where the need is more often than anything,” Burns said.

Building Lasting Connections:

Although the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department’s “Shop With A Cop” only happens once a year, the remarkable aspect of this event is the opportunity for officers to connect with the children on a deeper level. Beyond the event, many officers continue to follow up with the children they were paired with, forming lasting connections.

“A lot of the time you will connect with your kid… so you have the chance to follow up with them. So I’ll come see them at school, eat lunch with them, go outside and play kickball with them. I’ll make sure they are doing okay.” Burns said.

Creating a Safe and Joyful Community:

By “humanizing” law enforcement and showcasing their caring and compassionate sides, the hope is the children who make up the Lexington County community will view law enforcement as allies, rather than figures to be feared.

Importantly, deputies want these children to understand the joy they experience during the event is reciprocal.

“I want the kids to know that they made my day as much as we may have made theirs,” Burns said.

Initiatives such as “Shop With A Cop” not only bring joy to underprivileged children, but also serve as a reminder of the positive impact law enforcement can have on the community.

Be sure to follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for updates on the Shop with a Cop event as we see which of our deputies puts the saying “shop til you drop” to the test.

Think you’d be great at building mutual trust and understanding within our community? From positions that engage with community members to the vital professional staffers who keep our department moving, we welcome applications from everyone who shares our values and an interest in a rewarding career in law enforcement. Take a look at our current vacancies, and we look forward to hearing from you.

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DEPUTY CLAUS HITS THE STREETS FOR THE 4TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

In the heart of Lexington County, a heartwarming tradition has been lighting up the streets since December 2020, bringing joy to families and children during the holiday season. The annual “Deputy Claus” experience was created in response to the challenges faced by COVID-19 and has become a beloved event in the community ever since.

As the world grappled with the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic, Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon decided to create a magical experience for the community. Due to the suggestion from the CDC for group activities to be held outdoors rather than indoors and regular meeting spots, such as malls, were not in the picture, Sheriff Koon envisioned a mini-Christmas parade that would allow families to see and interact with Santa Claus safely.

Deputy Claus is now a beloved Lexington tradition and is entering its 4th year this December. Deputy Claus, accompanied by a crew of special helpers and deputies, will tour Lexington County Dec. 12, 14, 18 and 20.

What sets Deputy Claus apart is its community-centric approach. Instead of predetermined routes, the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department invites the community to actively participate in the route planning. The residents of Lexington County participate in a vote for which neighborhoods Santa should visit, ensuring the tour is tailored to the community.

Be sure to keep up with the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department on Instagram, Facebook and X to stay up to date on Deputy Claus’ arrival. On each night of the parade, the community can use the Glympse app to track Santa’s progress during his tours. Just before Santa and his convoy take off each night, LCSD posts a link to the live tracker, allowing families to follow Santa’s journey in real time.

Although Deputy Claus started as a reaction to difficult times, Lexington County finds it is a tradition that has proved to bring communities together during the holiday season. As this year’s event approaches, the spirit of Deputy Claus continues to shine brightly in Lexington County, reminding us all of the power of community compassion, and the magic of Christmas.

Are you interested in joining and serving a community that strives to make a difference? The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department is the place for you. Visit our website to browse our current jobs and apply online today.

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HEROES UNLEASHED; MEET OUR K-9 UNIT

Watch any cop show and you’ll hear them talk about that all-important relationship between partners. Well, that unbreakable bond is even stronger when it comes to the dedicated deputies in our K-9 unit and their loyal four-legged partners.

In this article, we’ll meet the remarkable team of highly trained deputies in the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department’s K-9 unit and the furry heroes who dedicate their lives to safeguarding our communities.

The Newest Pups on the Block

Joining the unit in February and July 2023, K-9s Sirkan, Zastava and Jim are the newest dogs in the unit. Though they look similar, K-9s Sirkan and Zastava are Belgian malinois while K-9 Jim is a German shepherd.

They might be rookies, but they know how to sniff out crime. All three are trained in patrol (criminal apprehension, handler protection, building, area and article searches), tracking and narcotics detection.

Master Deputy Mike Smith has been with the K-9 unit for more than five years, while handlers Phillip Goeckel and Jacob Caraway joined the K-9 unit in September 2021 and December 2022, respectively, after serving elsewhere in LCSD.

The Wise Old Dog

Keeping the newbies in line and showing them the ropes is K-9 Blesck. This Belgian malinois has been on patrol, tracking and narcotics detection since May 2016. Handler Frank McFalls started his LCSD career in November 2014, before moving to the K-9 unit in September 2020.

A Dynamic Duo

What’s better than one four-legged friend? Handler Torrell Jones has his hands full with two K-9 partners.

The unit’s only bl oodhound and South Carolina native, K-9 Autumn, is the second-longest serving K-9 and has been in the unit since October 2017. Boasting more scent detectors than any other dog breed and the ability to air scent, it’s no surprise K-9 Autumn specializes in tracking.

The other half of the dynamic duo under Handler Jones’ capable command is K-9 Xander. A German shepherd from Europe, he joined the unit in June 2020 and is trained in patrol (criminal apprehension, handler protection, building, area and article searches), tracking and narcotics detection.

A Nose for Crime

Known for their endurance, speed and agility, K-9 Eddie is our German short-haired pointer. Much like K-9 Autumn, K-9 Eddie is known for his nose. His long, broad muzzle makes him perfect for tracking, article searches and narcotics detection, which he’s been doing since joining the unit in May 2021. His handler, Candi Shealy, has been with LCSD almost 10 years, joining the K-9 unit in April 2020 as the first-ever full-time female handler.

Leading the Pack – K-9 Nero

Master Deputy Greg Love and K-9 Nero are leading the pack. Both joining the unit in winter 2018, these partners have been on patrol, tracking and narcotics detection ever since. K-9 Nero is a German shepherd from Europe. M.D. Love started LCSD in May 2017, joining the K-9 unit a little over a year later.

Sgt. Derek Applegate & K-9 Bodi

Leading the way on two legs and four are Sgt. Derek Applegate and K-9 Bodi. K-9 Bodi is a Belgian malinois who’s been keeping Lexington County safe since June 2018. As well as working on patrol and tracking, K-9 Bodi is our only dog that’s trained in explosive detection. K-9 Bodi is paired with Sgt. Derek Applegate. After joining LCSD in 1992, Sgt. Applegate started working in K-9 in 1995, playing a key role in forming today’s K-9 unit.

Developing your skills as a K-9 handler is just one of the many career paths at LCSD. Find out more about what makes LCSD a great place to work, what the application process involves and explore our current job openings on our dedicated careers website.

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HONORING VETERANS TODAY; CREATING OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE VETERANS OF TOMORROW

Veterans Day is an important moment to honor the 16.5 million servicemen and women who’ve served and protected our country with a whole variety of events and parades across the state.

It’s a day that means a lot to many of our team here in the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department.

We’re lucky to have welcomed many veterans looking to continue to serve the community and country over the years.

Working across a wide variety of roles, you’ll find people such as SRO Durco protecting and guiding students in our schools, as well as Deputy Kalie Natale, who enlisted in the Army when she was 19.

We’re grateful for the time, skills and dedication they bring to the community and the department, and, on this day, we take an extra moment to reflect, recognize and thank them for their prior service as part of our armed forces.

In South Carolina, veterans make up more than 10% of the adult population, compared to around 6-7% nationally.

That’s why we’re committed to continually supporting and welcoming veterans to our department via a number of important initiatives.

For over five years, we’ve been an Army Partnership for Your Success (PaYs) agency. The program represents a unique partnership between the U.S. Army and businesses or public sector agencies. Established to help soldiers balance their present and future careers, PaYs partners guarantee veterans an interview and the potential for employment after their Army service.

As well as being a PaYs agency, we’re part of the Army Career Skills Program (CSP). This program encourages soldiers to grasp the many training and development opportunities available to them during their Army careers, opening up a wide variety of employment opportunities after leaving the military.

We’re proud to be a CSP employer and have already had five soldiers take advantage of this program with two continuing on to become part of the LCSD team.

Whether you’re a veteran or currently serving in the military and looking ahead to the future, we encourage you to contact our team at join@lcsd.sc.gov or the Continuing Education Center on their base for more information about the CSP and other programs.

To the veterans who continue their service as part of our team and to all veterans across the U.S., we offer you our sincere thanks and gratitude on this day and always for your dedication to our great nation.

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TAKING CARE OF OFFICERS AFTER A CRITICAL INCIDENT

Why Mental Health Support After A Critical Incident Matters

Law enforcement is an incredibly rewarding career. In the course of serving the community, officers can be faced with difficult situations that affect them physically and emotionally.

Referred to as “critical incidents,” these difficult events may include situations such as a firearm being discharged or even an individual or officer losing their life.

The impact

As anyone who’s been through a difficult experience will tell you, the impact doesn’t always hit you right away.

Without ongoing support and multiple opportunities to process critical incidents with peers and professionals, PTSD can take hold.

No matter how long you’ve served, critical incidents impact everyone. In fact, repeated exposure to difficult situations can lead to compassion fatigue and secondary traumatic stress, something Lexington County Chaplain David Perkins refers to as “auto-pilot mode.”

A comprehensive program

The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department takes a proactive, preventive approach when it comes to supporting our team’s mental health.

Though all officers receive training on what to expect in the aftermath of a critical incident at the S.C. Criminal Justice Academy, nothing can prepare you for the reality of experiencing one firsthand. Having the right support in place is crucial.

Referred to by South Carolina Law Enforcement Assistance Program (SCLEAP)’s Program Manager Eric Skidmore as a “three-legged stool,” officers have the support of their peers, chaplains and mental health professionals.

An opportunity to talk

At the heart of the process is the critical incident debriefing. Not only does this give officers a forum to discuss the event, share their perspective and process their experience, it also acts as a gateway to further support services.

Four times a year, SCLEAP holds a three-day Post Critical Incident Seminar, giving officers from across the state a chance to receive additional support and training.

Free professional support

All of us need more support sometimes, and the same is true of our deputies. As well as having Mental Health professionals present at critical incident debriefings, officers can access one-on-one mental health support at no cost.

Whether it’s talking therapy or cutting-edge trauma processing techniques such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), all sworn officers in South Carolina have access to a $15,000 secondary insurance benefit to cover any co-pay or deductibles related to mental health treatment.

A whole-person approach

A difficult experience at work doesn’t just affect us in the workplace, it impacts every aspect of our lives.

SCLEAP’s pioneering debriefing method invites spouses to join the process, giving them a chance to hear about what their partner has experienced and to understand its impact.

This 360-degree approach to mental health support is something Pastor David Perkins feels strongly about.

“My goal for them is that they are the best police officers that we can have in Lexington County,” he says. “But on top of that, I want them to be the best husbands or wives and fathers or mothers they can be.”

Support, not religion

Chaplain Perkins is one of two chaplains available 24/7, 365 days a year for all members of the department. He describes his role as helping officers to be the best they can be “physically, mentally and spiritually.”

Though he’s an ordained minister, the mental health support he provides isn’t a matter of faith, but of love and support.

“I think it’s important for the officers and the people involved to understand that our job is not to push religion on them…but to be able to walk with them when they walk through the wilderness of critical incidents,” he explains.

A proactive approach

Having structured support from chaplains and SCLEAP as part of the aftermath of critical incidents means officers get the support they need quickly.

This proactive approach can make all the difference when it comes to mental health. Quick, free access to support stops mental health difficulties escalating, enabling our team to be at their best at work whilst serving our community and at home as a part of their family.

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ONES TO WATCH: MEET THE WOMEN SHAPING THE FUTURE OF LAW ENFORCEMENT AT LCSD

Question: What do the little sister you never wanted, an impromptu cow wrangler and a former trauma health care professional have in common?

Answer: They’re all law enforcement officers here at the Lexington County Sheriff’s Department!

For our October employee profile, we’re introducing three female law enforcement officers who are excelling in their roles and making sure Lexington County remains the safe place we love to call home.

Deputy Hannah Joslin

Confidence, a second family and the gratitude of the community are just some of the things Deputy Joslin has gotten from her role here at LCSD.

Going into law enforcement was a childhood dream come true for Joslin, the daughter of a retired state trooper.

Since joining the department in February 2021, her career and skills have gone from strength to strength, challenging stereotypes along the way.

“There’s a stereotype that only men or taller women can be in law enforcement, and I don’t fit that stereotype,” she explains.

A high flier in our department, Joslin credits her West Region co-workers, or “second family,” for great early career support and a warm sense of community.

“I’m like the annoying little sister they never wanted, but they got anyways,” Joslin jokes.

“We all hang out after shift. We go to each other’s houses. We have cookouts, stuff like that.”

West Region and the whole of LCSD are grateful to have Deputy Joslin as part of the family, and look forward to seeing her continue to break barriers and excel in her career.

Deputy Kalie Natale

From military police soldier to the Sheriff’s Department, Deputy Natale’s law enforcement career has been a wild ride since she left her hometown in Ohio at just 19 years old.

Quickly forming strong bonds with her fellow night shift co-workers, role models such as K-9 Deputy Candi Shealy have inspired Natale to work hard and follow her dreams.

She says her time at the department has helped her become more patient, find a sterner voice and taught her to improvise when facing the unexpected.

A middle-of-the-night call about a cow in Swansea even found her putting her lassoing skills and creativity to the test.

“I guess I’m just not prepared to wrangle cows every day, but I ended up taking some crime

scene tape and making it into a lasso and trying to get the cow,” Natale said. “Thankfully, there was a neighbor across the street who let me use some of her rope, and she let us put him back in the yard.”

No stranger to hard work, Natale is also studying Criminal Justice online at South University with an eye on continuing to progress her law enforcement career in the Major Crimes Unit.

Deputy Katelyn Knipher

Rewind a few years and you’d find Deputy Knipher in scrubs, not in uniform. Having earned a degree in biology, she worked in a trauma hospital ER for five years.

After stepping away from health care, Knipher discovered she could find many of the things she’d loved about medicine through a career in law enforcement.

“I loved the adrenaline behind it,” Kniphfer said. “I loved helping people, getting to be there for people on their worst days, and I still get to do that”.

Knipher credits her fellow deputies for not only making the switch a success but for helping her come out of her shell and fall in love with her new career.

Continuing to look to the future, Knipher sees many opportunities to combine her biology background and law enforcement experience in the Narcotics Unit or as a tactical medic on the SWAT team.

Having gained valuable insight into law enforcement through job shadowing, she wants other people to make the most of these experiences and find a career they love.

“There are a lot of people who are meant for it and are too scared to go into the field,” Kniphfer explains. “We have an internship program and we have ride-alongs…just come hang out with us for a day.”

A big thank you to Deputies Joslin, Natale and Knipher from everyone at the department and in the community for your continued dedication and service. If you’re inspired by their career stories, you can learn more about who we are and what we stand for on our dedicated recruitment website. You’ll find more information about the different roles in law enforcement, as well as what makes LCSD a great place to work.