This year the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office joins the State and Nation in recognizing the men and women in the Corrections field by participating in the “National Corrections Officers’ Week.”

In 1984, President Ronald Regan signed Proclamation 5187, “National Correctional Officers’ Week”, as a way to recognize the men and women in the corrections profession. Each year the first full week in May is recognized as National Correctional Officers and Employees Week, commemorating the contributions of correctional officers and personnel who work in jails, prisons and community corrections across the United States. These quiet professionals are an important part of the criminal justice community as they are responsible for the care and custody of citizens who are considered a threat to society, without them it would be impossible to achieve the goals of justice in our society.

The important work of Correctional Officers often does not receive the recognition from the public it deserves. Therefore, to recognize the contributions made by the corrections personnel in our agency and community, I want to take the time to acknowledge the work these professionals do each day and to say “Thank You” for your service.

As I reflect on the importance of this week, I am reminded of another important event later this month. On May 23rd, 2017 we will be honoring all of our public safety officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty at the First Baptist Church of Lake City, Fellowship Hall.

Sheriff Mark Hunter

Letter from Sheriff