Leadership Lincoln County: Law Enforcement & Judicial System
Submitted By: Sophia Perez | North Platte Library
 
                On September 15^th, the members of Leadership Lincoln County gathered at the North Platte Police Department to learn more about the cities’ legal system. The chief of the department, Mr. Steve Reeves, kicked off the day with an overview of the police system with the county. The leadership group was able to tour the building and hear from some of the employees who help make up the department.
                The second stop of the tour was at our local State Patrol Office. Within the building, the recent drug bust on I-80 was discussed. In this process, the Nebraska State Patrol seized almost 20,000 pounds of substances after pulling the suspect over. In this discussion, the importance of non-distracted driving was highlighted. History of the department, and training of the troopers was also brought into the conversation.
                Upon lunchtime, the group convened inside the Sheriff’s Office. Emergency management was the topic after lunch. The emergency system and sirens were explained, and the significance of these services were emphasized. Updates in this area are constantly evaluated to keep improving with the development of technology.
                The members of the Leadership group were split in two and directed into the jail for a tour. The history of the building, as well as information about the facilities were explained. After exiting the jail, members were able to learn about the devices used by the Sheriff’s Office. This included an in-depth look at the operations within a deputies’ vehicle.
                The last stop of the day was the Lincoln County Courthouse. Inside the building, multiple offices and their daily tasks were explored. Some of these offices include the assessors, treasurer, clerk, and district court. After the tour, a panel discussion was held inside the courtroom. Local representatives from the public defender’s office, juvenile probation, homeland security, and the Lincoln County Attorney’s office answered questions. Topics such as immigration and city development were analyzed.
                Learning about the processes of your community is important. It is essential to ask questions and do your research to be aware of the operations happening daily. If there is one thing I can take from this experience, it would be to build your knowledge of local, state, and federal processes that impact our lives. 

Photos available here!