Lyon Co. Sheriff Brad Pope’s Message of the Week on May 30, 2025

In 2025, members of the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office participated in ten career fairs at elementary, middle and high schools throughout Lyon County, along with three at Boys and Girls Club locations. The objective is future recruitment, and awareness of how the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office operates but they also serve another purpose, breaking down barriers between our youth and law enforcement.

The Lyon County Sheriff’s Office shifted to the mindset of engaging our youth in 2023 which operates cooperatively with the zero-tolerance policy instituted in our schools. In schools, and outside of schools, aggressively enforcing the law requires community buy-in, trust, and partnership.

Breaking down barriers between youth and law enforcement fosters trust, improves communication, and can lead to a safer community. By building positive relationships, law enforcement can better understand the needs and perspectives of youth, which can lead to more effective problem-solving and crime prevention.

Career fairs do more than just recruitment, they:

Challenging Stereotypes:

These programs help youth see Deputies, and Staff as “regular people” with their best interests at heart.

Reduce Criminal Activity:

Some evidence suggests youth involvement may help prevent youth from engaging in criminal or socially unacceptable behavior.

Increased Trust and Reporting:

Positive relationships can lead to youth being more comfortable reporting issues at home or school.

Understanding Law Enforcement:

Hands-on activities can give youth insights into how systems work.

Access to Services:

Youth may be able to access needed County services.

Better Understanding of Youth:

Improved communication and relationships help law enforcement better understand the challenges faced by youth.

The mission of breaking down barriers with our youth and our community is not complete and never will be. However, the Lyon County Sheriff’s Office has made significant strides in these areas, and will continue to make a concentrated effort on our partnership with the community.

Respectfully,

Sheriff Brad Pope