CLINTON, Ill. (WAND) — The DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office is hoping a new approach will help solve its shortage of correctional officers and emergency dispatchers.
Sheriff Mike Walker wold WAND News his team is struggling to fill open positions on both fronts, with only a handful of applicants coming through in recent months.
“Some of our dispatchers are working six or seven days a week,” Walker said.
Walker emphasizes the importance of these roles in public safety. Dispatchers are the first line of communication in emergencies, while corrections officers help maintain order and safety within the jail.
"I've been involved in law enforcement for almost 40 years, and it's rewarding."
To combat the crisis, the sheriff’s office is hosting an in-person job fair Thursday, April 3 at 6 p.m. at the DeWitt County Sheriff’s Office. The goal is to connect with interested candidates 18 and older and give them a clear understanding of the hiring process and job responsibilities.
He’s also reached out to local high school counselors in Clinton, Maroa, and Blue Ridge, encouraging graduates to consider the opportunity.
Corrections Officers must pass a written exam, background check, psychological and physical exams. The eight-week state training is mandated by the State of Illinois.
Dispatchers will receive training in-house.
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