BECKLEY, WV (WOAY) – The Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department is all about engaging with its community.
They say it’s key to building community relations, letting residents know they care, and connecting them with resources.
“I think I’ve put the perfect people in those positions to interact with — leaders of that community and different people,” said Sheriff Frank Priddy. “It’s a great thing.”
“We are here for them 24/7, 365 days a year; they can trust us,” Cpl. Christine Schack said. “We want to build rapport.”
The Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department is working collaboratively with the community to help make better public decisions.
“I’d be more than happy to go wherever and speak with them in the county,” said Sgt. B.J. Adkins. “That goes with recruitment or rehabilitation for somebody that’s maybe seeking recovery. I’m big on that as well.”
Changing lives, both as part of the community engagement team and as a county Dare officer, means everything to Schack.
“It’s a huge blessing and honor to be part of it, part of the face of the community, part of the small group that’s reaching out and engaging with the public,” she said.
The community needs to feel safe interacting with the sheriff’s department, and the community engagement program allows them to identify and address well-being issues affecting the local population.
“People viewing us with a campaign hat or tactical vest (might think) we are a little intimidating. That’s not the case,” said Schack. “We’re just dressed for duty and here to respond for any event that might be needed in the county.”
It’s all about empowering residents and improving their quality of life.
“I think if we all work together, we can make this a stronger county and our administration now is all about that,” Adkins said.
