“When one officer serves, their whole family serves alongside them.”

Supporting the Silent Partners in Law Enforcement

Behind every badge is a family, and in many cases, no one carries more of the unseen weight than the spouse. Law enforcement officers bring the stress of the job home. They may not talk much, but when they do, their spouse is the first to hear it. That emotional burden often goes unacknowledged, but it is very real.

As Sheriff, I will work to build a strong and compassionate support system for the spouses and families of our deputies, recognizing that wellness must extend beyond the uniform.

Establishing a Deputies’ Spousal Support Group

We will form a Deputies’ Spousal Support Group a safe, informal, and welcoming space for spouses and partners of our officers to gather, decompress, and connect with others who truly understand the unique challenges they face.

This group will:

• Meet regularly for fellowship, peer-led discussions, and mutual support.
• Be structured around confidentiality, trust, and relatability, spouses talking with spouses, building relationships in a no-pressure environment.
• Provide access to resources on managing stress, maintaining healthy communication, and supporting mental and emotional well-being at home.
• Include optional events for families, such as workshops, speakers, or activities designed to strengthen the family unit and promote resilience.

Family Is Law Enforcement Too

Law enforcement is often called a family. That must extend to the real families, spouses and children who live this life every single day.

Whether it’s waiting through late-night shifts, holding the line during uncertain times, or managing the emotional fallout from critical incidents, spouses are essential partners in the law enforcement journey.

As Sheriff, I will not forget them. I will support them, listen to them, and ensure they feel valued and included.

Community, Connection, and Care

This initiative will:

• Foster unity and connection among spouses who often feel isolated or overwhelmed.
• Help reduce the emotional toll at home, improving overall family stability and well-being.
• Reinforce the culture of support, empathy, and shared purpose within the Sheriff’s Office.
• Serve as an early support system that can identify when officers or their families are struggling, and help them before crisis hits.

My Commitment

• Establish a formal Deputies’ Spousal Support Group under the wellness program.
• Provide logistical support, meeting space, and connection to counseling resources.
• Include family wellness in agency-wide health initiatives.
• Reinforce the idea that strong families build strong officers—and strong communities.