Local Sheriff's Office increases staffing to combat gang violence in collaboration with US Marshals

During the Greene County Committee meeting held on April 2, 2025, significant discussions centered around law enforcement staffing, jail operations, and community safety initiatives. The meeting highlighted the ongoing efforts to address staffing shortages within the Greene County Sheriff's Office, which has been a pressing issue since the jail's opening.

Sheriff Bob Sharp reported progress in filling vacancies, noting a recent lateral transfer from the Delaware County Sheriff's Office and the hiring of four state correctional officers, with three more candidates undergoing background checks. If successful, this recruitment will bring the department to full staffing levels for the first time since the jail's inception. This development is crucial as it will allow the reopening of a housing unit for female inmates, which had been closed due to staffing shortages.

The sheriff also addressed the potential expiration of an executive order affecting hiring practices, stating that it would not significantly impact their recruitment efforts. He reassured the committee that none of the current candidates were terminated and that the department would continue to move forward with hiring.

In addition to staffing updates, Sheriff Sharp discussed recent collaborative safety initiatives, including a large-scale active attack response drill conducted at a local middle school. This drill involved multiple agencies, including local police, fire departments, and emergency medical services, emphasizing the importance of inter-agency cooperation in enhancing community safety.

The meeting also touched on the achievements of deputies involved in high-level investigations with the United States Marshals Office. Notably, two deputies played a key role in apprehending a violent gang member linked to multiple homicides, showcasing the effectiveness of local law enforcement in tackling serious crime.

Overall, the discussions at the Greene County Committee meeting underscored the ongoing commitment to improving public safety through enhanced staffing, training, and inter-agency collaboration. As the sheriff's office continues to address its staffing challenges, the community can anticipate a strengthened law enforcement presence and improved safety measures in the region.