In a recent meeting, Jean Ward from the Seward County Sheriff's Office presented alarming crime statistics and urgent requests for salary adjustments for law enforcement personnel. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) reported a total of 3 murders, 12 rapes, 14 robberies, and a significant rise in property crimes in Seward County for 2023. Overall, violent crimes in the state have increased by 2.9% from the previous year and are up 17.5% compared to the ten-year average.

Ward highlighted the dangers faced by local law enforcement, referencing recent shootings involving deputies in neighboring counties. She emphasized the critical role of Seward County as a high-intensity drug trafficking area, noting that over 28 pounds of methamphetamine and various other drugs have been seized in recent investigations.

The sheriff's office has responded to over 2,500 incidents this year, including 50 DUI arrests and 67 motor vehicle accidents. Ward pointed out the staffing challenges faced by the Liberal Police Department, which has led to Seward County deputies frequently assisting with calls.

To address staffing shortages and retain current personnel, Ward proposed a salary increase for deputies from $20 to $23 per hour, citing competitive pay rates in surrounding counties. She also requested a raise for records staff, whose starting salary is currently $15.45 per hour, proposing an increase to $18.45.

Ward assured the board that funding for these salary adjustments could be supported through reimbursements and fees collected by the sheriff's office. She urged for the proposed changes to take effect as soon as possible, either in the next pay period or at the beginning of the new year following budget hearings.