Kenosha County board approves ordinance allowing sheriff’s office to hire at 19 after hours-long debate

The Kenosha County Board of Supervisors voted 17-5 to approve Ordinance 28, amending the county municipal code (Chapter 4) to allow the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department to hire applicants who are 19 years old, the board announced after roll call and debate.

The measure drew extended debate on the board floor, two failed amendments and several public speakers who urged rejection. Supporters said the change gives the sheriff’s office flexibility to recruit younger candidates who complete specified training and college-credit requirements; opponents cited brain-development research and mental-health risks for younger officers.

Robin Cullen, a licensed clinical counselor who spoke during citizens’ comments, urged the board to reject the change. “I respectfully urge you to vote no on the proposal to lower the hiring age for deputies in the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Department to 19,” Cullen said, adding that “the frontal lobe of the brain, which is not fully developed until around age 25,” influences judgment and emotional regulation.

Erin Anzac, another resident, framed the issue as part of the public’s social contract with government and law…