Special Projects
Special Projects was implemented by Sheriff Forte' in 2020. The unit was established initially as a temporary position designed to research policy and procedure. Since implementation, Special Projects has developed into a multi-faceted position with many responsibilities. Sheriff Forte' made the position permanent after only a year, seeing the utility of the position. The sergeant who staffs the position is an extension of the Staff Services commander. In this position, the sergeant completes tasks assigned by the commander, as well as assisting the Training Unit and the Operation Sergeant when needed.
Since the inception, Special Projects has begun overhauling policy and procedure using the Lexipol system. Lexipol provides the Sheriff's Office with updated legally vetted policies. The Special Projects Coordinator has the responsibility of tailoring the policies to fit the needs of the Sheriff's Office. Upon completion, the Sheriff's Office will have expanded to over 150 policies and procedures. The expansion will enable the Sheriff's Office to better serve the community.
Special Projects has further researched and passed through the legislature, a training simulator which will enable the Sheriff's Office to master their abilities of conflict resolution, use of force scenarios, responding to those with special needs and many others. The VirTra V300 is another tool Sheriff Forte' has authorized to enable the Sheriff's Office to better serve the community.
Additionally the Jackson County Sheriff's Office Chaplain Corps has been put under the command of Special Projects. Chaplains take an oath; however, their commitment is specific to the duties of a chaplain based on agency policy. The oath does not include similar law enforcement authority. Chaplains are bound by the same ethics as deputies, as well as agency policies and procedures. The Sheriff's Office Chaplain provides emotional, moral, and spiritual support to deputies, staff and their families. The chaplains are volunteers and dedicate many hours of service. Although chaplains may be of one particular denomination, they provide support to all, even if it means locating resources for individuals who do not share the same belief system.