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๐๐ ๐ฆ๐ต๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ณ๐ณ ๐๐ฎ๐ฟ๐ ๐ฃ๐ฒ๐ฟ๐ฟ๐ถ๐ฒ๐ฟ
As we enter the third quarter of 2025, the Osage County Sheriffโs Office continues making steady progress on critical infrastructure upgrades and operational improvements that enhance our ability to serve the citizens of Osage County.
At the Osage County Jail, we recently resolved a significant, long-standing plumbing issue in one of the inmate housing areas. With the support of the Osage County Commissioners, we completed this $30,000 repairโeliminating a problem that had persisted for years. Additionally, weโve implemented a new RFID tracking system to streamline inmate checks, improving both accountability and safety within the facility.
In July, we entered into a new contract with Dr. Rumsey, a local physician, to provide inmate medical services. We believe this partnership will not only enhance the quality of care for those in custody but also be more cost-effective for the county.
Looking ahead, with approval from the County Commissioners, we will soon begin construction of a new 150-by-50-foot multipurpose facility. This building will provide long-term evidence storage and serve as a central hub for Osage County Emergency Management operations. Two-thirds of the structure will be dedicated to secure storage for evidence, with the remaining third supporting emergency management functions. This project was identified as a top priority early in my term. We anticipate completion by spring 2026, with the Sheriffโs Office funding two-thirds of the project cost and Emergency Management covering the remainder.
On the patrol side, I am pleased to report that we are now operating at full staffing, with five deputies assigned to each 12-hour shift. This allows for improved patrol coverage and faster response times countywide.
Our School Resource Officer (SRO) program has also expanded significantly. We now have six SROs serving nine school districts. While most districts still share an SRO, weโre proud to announce that starting this school year, the Shidler School District will receive full-time SRO coverage under a new agreement in which the district funds the salary during the academic year. We remain committed to expanding this program to enhance school safety across the county.
The investigations division continues to carry a demanding caseload involving major crimes, property crimes, and narcotics enforcement. While this workload has limited our capacity to fully revisit cold cases, we are actively working to move several of them forward. One area weโve identified for targeted improvement is the investigation of sex crimes. Beginning in August, we will assign a dedicated investigator to handle these cases exclusively, along with a full-time Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) investigator. This structure is a critical step toward more effectively addressing cases involving sexual predators and safeguarding our most vulnerable citizens. We are actively seeking grant funding and financial support to sustain these specialized roles.
Another important update, Osage County Dispatch has officially assumed responsibility for dispatching police, fire, and EMS services for the City of Pawhuska. This expansion was made possible through a new $100,000 annual contract agreement, further strengthening collaboration and emergency response capabilities.
As always, I remain committed to transparency, accountability, and meaningful progress. Iโm proud of the dedication shown by every division within the Sheriffโs Office. Thank you to the people of Osage County for your continued trust and support.
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