To the editor:

On Oct. 14 and 15 I had the privilege of attending the first Citizens Academy sponsored by the Brown County Sheriff’s Department. It took place at the Law Enforcement Center in Nashville.

It is the first of its kind in Brown County and is an excellent program of engaging the public on all aspects and challenges of local law enforcement.

Before this seminar I had a general working knowledge of police logistics, but this program dramatically enhanced my awareness of day-to-day activity and operations of the Brown County Sheriff’s Department.

I feel Sheriff Scott Southerland, Chief Deputy Brad Stogsdill, Reserve Deputy Keith Baker and their entire staff of officers and civilians takes an extremely sincere and professional approach toward public safety for the citizens of Brown County.

This was community policing at its finest.

I, for one, enthusiastically support our local law enforcement personnel and urge each and every citizen in Brown County to do the same.

Phil Stephens, director, Brown County Solid Waste Management District

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