JOHNSON COUNTY—A Kansas sheriff's department is hiring and sent a strong message Thursday to unvaccinated officers from across the nation.
In a social media message, Johnson County, Kansas Sheriff Calvin Hayden said, "We have a place for you. The Johnson County Sheriff’s Office is a safe haven for law enforcement officers who feel unsupported and undervalued by their communities and their government leaders."
“True to our Midwestern values, Johnson County is a place where freedom is valued, and law enforcement is respected. The support our citizens have shown over the last several years has been overwhelming," said Hayden.
In dozens of cities across the United States, men and women in uniform are being faced with a decision that jeopardizes their family’s livelihood – to stay or to go. Shrinking budgets, low morale and government overreach are just a few of the reasons behind the law enforcement exodus happening in many agencies.
Hayden wants those officers to know that won’t happen at his Sheriff’s Office.
“People may say this is all about the vaccine, but that’s missing the point. This issue is so much more than that. This is about valuing, empowering and supporting individual decisions," said Hayden.
"The Sheriff's Office is a large family of unique, highly-trained professionals dedicated to serving our citizens. We are proud of our diversity and professionalism. We trust our staff to make the best decisions for themselves and our citizens.
"Hayden says his employees are like family to him; their wellbeing is his top priority. Moreover, he says Johnson County offers the complete package for families looking to relocate: Great schools, safe neighborhoods, community support, an easy commute, a big sports town, beautiful parks, and most importantly, jobs. Plus, we are halfway to anywhere in the country.
Hayden emphasizes the diversity of the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office, with employees from all over the globe, from Scotland to California. Additionally, at least 16 languages are currently spoken by employees of the Sheriff’s Office. Equal opportunity is provided to all. “We are blessed here in Johnson County to have a safe, friendly and welcoming environment for raising families. Our citizens support our mission and we are looking for the best of the best to continue our tradition of excellence," said Hayden.
The sheriff encourage any first responders who are looking for a positive career change to go to their hiring website joinjcso.org.