I just want to share a few things with the public that we have been working toward the past couple of months. State law mandates that the Sheriff has the responsibility of providing security for the courthouse in their jurisdiction. Pittsburg County is one of the few courthouses that has no security measures in place. We have purchased metal detectors and an x-ray scanner that we will be putting into place within the next few weeks. Anyone entering the courthouse will pass through the metal detector and their belongings will be scanned thru the scanner. We are still awaiting some signage to be delivered along with some temporary barriers before we put this into effect. I know we will need to educate the public about what will and will not be allowed inside. State law says the only firearms allowed inside the building will be certified law enforcement and judges. Citizens and employees with concealed carry permit will not be allowed to take a weapon inside. Fixed blade knives and backpacks are not permitted. All bags or briefcases will be scanned upon entry. We will have deputies stationed at this location to conduct the security check. Entry into the courthouse will be limited to the handicap entrance which is located just to the west of the main entry. New signs on the sidewalk will help navigate the public to this entry. Once your business is completed inside the courthouse, you can exit through the front doors. These doors will be for exit only and no entry. I ask that everyone remain patient during this transition time and remember that these measures are to protect everyone. Tasked with this huge responsibility, I feel it is important to put measures in place to protect the citizens of this county when they visit our courthouse. More information will be provided concerning this every week.
Next week is Spring Break for schools in our area! Springtime in our area means the potential for severe weather. I want to remind you to make sure you and your loved ones have prepared an emergency kit and a safety plan has been discussed. Go to a basement, safe room, or a storm cellar if possible. If that is not possible, go to an interior room on the lowest level. Remember, try to put as many walls between you and the outside. Stay away from windows. Keep a flashlight and extra batteries, bottled water, and a small first aid kit in a safe storage area. Receive alerts on your cell phone of severe weather. Everyone stay safe!!
I want to invite everyone to join us this Saturday, March 15, at the Southeast Expo Center, as we will be involved with the “Calling All Heroes” Kid’s Fair. This event is presented by OSU Extension Center and is open to everyone and it will be from 10:00-2:00. We will have one of our patrol units on hand, a demonstration of our drones, Hazel the therapy dog will be on hand, and deputies will be on hand to visit with the children. Proud to be involved with this event and would love to have you come join us!!
Finally, I want to recognize a couple of employees who have been in training for the past eighteen weeks. Essence Corpus and Kyle Williams will graduate on Thursday, March 13, from their CLEET training academy. Both have completed the 600-hour requirement that is mandated by law and passed the skills portion of the training. We look forward to them joining our deputies in the field, and they both have a bright future in front of them. If you see them out in public, give them a congrats and a high five!!
Sheriff Frankie McClendon
