Custody Assistant Academy Update, CCW Renewals and More

Frustration. It simply resonates through conversations with line personnel who are working 64- or 72-hour weeks. It has not been an easy season to get through, and heads are spinning as to how and when we’ll get through this. And at what cost?

At some point, mental fatigue may come into play. The need for personal, family time and overall rest is much needed, yet hard to come by. Factoring in the commutes, for some, it’s simply a grind at this point.

The Sheriff’s Department has expressed it has plans for hiring — but how wide-ranging or successful it will be has yet to be determined. The fallout from the County’s disastrous mandates, such as early retirements and employees leaving for other agencies or requiring vaccinations just to apply, not to mention the poorly conceived AA degree requirement, will have long lingering effects.

So what’s good, you ask? There is a Custody Assistant (C/A) academy in progress. All 15 recruits will hopefully accomplish their goal and graduate in November. Every bit helps, and good luck to them going through the rigors to receive their certificate.

There is also a meeting scheduled with Custody Division to get answers on how the Department determines to field a C/A academy, the number of recruits in any class and how many classes to schedule. Certainly, they’re looking for deputies, but not having C/A to “support” custody’s infrastructure is problematic and a burden on those currently working.

There is a point when the Department’s process is impeding its progress.

Remember that your open enrollment is coming, and with that comes increases in medical rates. For PPOA members, there is a 2.5% increase in the County contribution. Increases vary based on your particular plan.

CCWs continue to be issued, and we’re in the season of renewals for the first group to receive them. Begin your renewal 90 days before the expiration of your current permit. As for now, everything is online, and you will be issued a number to accompany your renewal packet. 

Start your renewal as soon as allowable. It is at this time that you can make changes to what you carry. If your permit expires before then, you cannot carry until you receive your new permit.

Make sure that PPOA has your current email address. There will be more information to follow through email.

Thank you for your time and service. And thank you to your families for their support, patience and understanding during this time.

Take care of yourself and your mental health, and be safe.