Noblesville, Indiana - January 2004
When Doug Carter became the new Sheriff of the most rapidly growing county in Indiana last January, he took on some significant challenges. Hamilton County features four medium-sized, fast-growing cities and annexation has become a common reality of late. When land is annexed, it requires the department to give the new municipality complete attention and support as well as continue to provide services to existing municipalities. "The services to newly annexed areas need to be seamless," states Carter.

Communication is Paramount
Good service requires good communication. Sheriff Carter believes that communication is one of his biggest community challenges. He makes an ongoing concerted effort to communicate with others, share ideas, and be proactive. With three communications centers in the county, information isn't always shared effectively between them. Blending them into one center is one solution he is working on. Communication with his peers is also very important. He holds a deep appreciation for his peers in public safety and has regular contact with both the law enforcement and fire service communities. "Public service comes from all of us in this community. It is paramount to share ideas and suggestions with others," emphasizes Carter.

Departmental Challenges and Goals
Providing measurable police service to his customers is the nucleus of all that his department does. Sheriff Carter places high importance on sharing resources with other departments to better serve the citizens of the community. "It is an obligation to society that we do all we can do to prevent other victims. The bottom line is that the job gets done, not who has the most toys," shares Carter. The Department has identified the high crime areas in the community, has implemented plans, and analyzed the results. High recidivism rates
have led to new inmate programs that include faith-based programs, decision making and consequence programs, and educational opportunities.

Most Significant First-Year Accomplishment
One of Sheriff Carter's proudest accomplishments in 2003 was the implementation of a wellness program to help his personnel take steps towards good health. The Sheriff was first introduced to such a program when he was serving with the Indiana State Police. He saw and experienced the many health benefits the program provided to himself and his peers, including improved morale. "If we can't respond physically, there is a problem," says Carter. He has found that healthy employees are more satisfied, productive, and appreciative.

Healthy Habits Pay Off
When Sheriff Carter began his service with Hamilton County, the wellness program was non-existent. Wellness benefits were available, but personnel weren't taking advantage of them.

Then, a 49-year-old officer died suddenly from a heart condition. "People began soul searching and realized that they are not immune to a similar fate," says Carter. The wellness program was almost met with open arms. They saw that it was designed to help them become healthier employees. All of his personnel now receive a complete physical and fitness evaluation. "We all need to take personal ownership for the agency and our families," says the Sheriff. "The consensus has been amazing" and his personnel have bought into the program and have begun making lifestyle changes.

"It is the absolute responsible decision to provide a wellness program. Just like spending money on body armor can save a life, a physical examination can do the same," concludes Carter.

Click here for the Hamilton County Sheriff's Department newsletter article.

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© 2006 Public Safety Medical Services