9. Do you think the sheriff’s office should be involved in community outreach events such as the Adams County rodeo?

Freeman: I have a heart for serving others and have been involved in community outreach for many years. I do believe that the Adams County Sheriff’s Office needs to be actively involved in our community in all aspects, not just law enforcement. I was very proud to initiate the Adams County Deputy Rodeo, which provides great family entertainment for our community. This annual event provides funds to purchase necessary deputy equipment. Our citizens need to see that we will work side by side with them building relationships that reach beyond the law enforcement boundary and while saving taxpayer’s money.

Mayfield: As sheriff, I expect my staff to be community-minded. My deputies volunteer a lot of their personal time to community projects such as Special Olympics, Natchez Children’s Home, balloon race, deputy sheriff rodeo, etc. To give back to the community shows our citizens that the officers are approachable and are citizens just like them. This is especially important for the youth to have contact with officers in a relaxed and friendly atmosphere so that they are not afraid of law enforcement and feel comfortable talking to them. As far as the deputies rodeo it is a way to provide a safe and family friendly weekend to interact with our law enforcement officers. Community relations is the bedrock of a successful sheriff’s office.

Patten: Yes. I actually think that the sheriff’s office should do more community outreach programs throughout the entire year in order to build relationships and understand the people that we are policing. Community engagement also assists with trust, respect, and acquaintance of those who choose to serve and protect.

Prater: Yes! I think it’s a good thing! When elected sheriff I will look for ways to have more community related events.

 

10. What other issue do you think needs to be addressed significantly?

Freeman: Wasteful spending needs to be addressed. Over the past six years, ACSO expenditures have increased $1.1 million dollars with increases in staff, vehicles and vehicle maintenance expenses. The sheriff’s office should be more conscientious about purchases to reduce purchasing errors and should make every effort to utilize funds wisely. Utilizing government resources where possible could take the burden off the taxpayers. Over the past several years, opportunities were not taken that could have provided new radios for the deputies, at a savings of $300,000 to taxpayers, and state funds should have been requested to build a new jail facility.

Mayfield: The issues that I feel need to be addressed have been covered in the preceding questions. I thank The Natchez Democrat and the citizens of Adams County for giving me this opportunity to address these questions.

Patten: The lack of communication between Adams County Sheriff Office and Natchez Police Department; accountability for actions (standardized code of ethics); standardize pay scale for new hires; issuance of take home cars to only necessary personnel; jail staffing; inefficient use of taxpayer funds; lack of specialized training; addressing the high personnel turnover rate, (which is) currently the highest in Adams County history.

Prater: Wasteful spending. The best things in life are free!