Sheriff issues appeal to citizens in fight against crime

Responding to the increasing number of people wanting to assist law enforcement officials and build a stronger partnership in the fight against crime, Lorain County Sheriff Phil R. Stammitti announced March 19 county citi- zens are being invited to become associate members of the Buckeye State Sheriffs’ Association.

Membership appeals go out in the mail this week, according to a news release from Stammitti.

Individuals choosing to join the voluntary program can do so for as little as $20.

The funding provides critically important technical resources, training and legislative support on key criminal issues, the release said.

In addition, dues will be used to support crime prevention and awareness programs, promote public safety and provide additional training for sheriffs and their deputies, according to the release.

“With government funding becoming increasingly difficult to secure, the associate membership drive has taken on greater importance than ever before,” Stammitti said. “The funding is vital to helping us carry out our mission of making our communities safer places to live, work and play.”

Individuals not receiving a membership appeal or desiring more information can obtain it by contacting the Buckeye State Sheriffs’ Association at 1103 Schrock Road, Suite 401, Columbus, Ohio 43229.

The toll free telephone number is 800-589-2772.

Information is also available online, www.buckeyesheriffs.org.

Meanwhile, residents wishing to become associate members also can sign up for the program by contacting the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office at 440-3293702.

The associate membership program was started to provide citizens with an opportunity to lend their support to more effective law enforcement and to better help local sheriffs protect the lives and property of citizens, the release said.

“As the need for building stronger public-private law enforcement partnerships in this country continues to escalate, programs such as this continue to grow in importance,” Stammitti said. “I would encourage everyone receiving a membership appeal to consider joining forces with us by becoming an associate member.

“It is a valuable investment in our future.”

Founded in 1931, the Buckeye State Sheriffs’ Association is a professional and educational organization dedicated to the preservation of peace and the protection of the lives and property of Ohio citizens.

Robert A. Cornwell is executive director. Headquarters are located in Columbus.

Stammitti