Texas County Sheriff Scott Lindsey’s May update

On May 26, 1998, I started my full-time law enforcement career with the Licking Police Department. A lot of things have changed in law enforcement over the last 26 years. It seems like a good time to reflect on some of the changes.

The first patrol car I was assigned to was a 1994 Chevrolet Caprice. The Caprice powered by a 5.7-liter LT1 motor ran very well, but was not very comfortable. It had a bench front seat and manual crank windows. The law enforcement equipment featured a large exterior light bar, with a very loud siren speaker mounted in the light bar. On the inside it had an MPH S-80 radar unit that took up a significant portion of the dashboard, along with siren/light controls and a Motorola VHF radio. All of this stuff got the job done but it stands in stark contrast to law enforcement vehicles in recent years equipped with LED lights, safety features, multiple tone siren systems, dual band radios connected to a statewide network and mobile computers.

The biggest change I have seen over the years is definitely the technology available both to law enforcement and criminals. Of the equipment issued when I started, the portable radios of that era did not work well, our cars are equipped now with a repeater system that allows deputies to use their portable radio to talk back through the car’s radio if they are out of tower range. TASERS are now standard issue for officers, in 1998 the only less lethal options were baton and pepper spray. Firearms issued to officers currently are generally lighter in weight and offer more custom options such as light attachments and red dot sight systems. Ballistic vests are lighter in weight and there are many more options for external wear and to attach equipment that used to be carried on a duty belt.

Now for the negative, not a day goes by that someone doesn’t commit a crime using a computer or smartphone. From distracted driving to child enticement, criminals take advantage of technology also. Nearly every major criminal investigation now includes electronic evidence. Law enforcement officers and especially investigators have an increasing need to have knowledge of technology and investigative techniques related to technology.

Looking at the call list for May, the most prominent call type was domestic violence. There were also three cases of resisting arrest. I mention those cases to remind everyone of the risks our deputies and local law enforcement officers face every day. On June 22, local law enforcement is hosting a golf tournament at the Houston Municipal Golf Course to benefit “Shop with a Hero.” The tournament is a two-person scramble with an entry fee of $120 per team. Sponsorships are available also with all proceeds staying in Texas County to help us take kids Christmas shopping. To enter a team, contact the golf course clubhouse at 417-967-0791. If you or your business are interested in being a sponsor contact Matt Woodmansee at the Houston Police Department or Kenny Reynolds at the Texas County Sheriff’s Office.

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