Knox County Sheriff Daniel Weckesser provided the Board of Commissioners with a detailed update on his office during its January 30 meeting, focusing on staffing shortages, jail population, and ongoing efforts to improve security in the evidence room.
As of the meeting, the Knox County Jail was housing 18 women and 51 men, with one individual currently at Twin Valley Behavioral Healthcare Hospital for treatment. Additionally, four individuals were awaiting beds for psychological evaluations. Weckesser stated that his office is actively interviewing candidates to fill several open positions. Specifically, there are three budgeted deputy positions that need to be filled, and two current deputies will soon be promoted to detective roles.
In regard to staffing in Centerburg, Weckesser shared plans to assign two deputies to the area. The current day shift deputy in Centerburg is retiring at the end of February, and another deputy is on military leave. The sheriff’s office contracts with Centerburg for two deputies—one for the day shift and one for the night shift—to support operations at the Village Center. The sheriff stressed the importance of maintaining this coverage for the community.
The sheriff’s office is also looking to fill the positions of children’s services investigator and drug investigator this week, which would open up additional roles in the patrol unit. “We have two individuals starting in the academy who are currently employed as civilians,” Weckesser explained. “However, it will likely be nine months before they’re ready for full duty, assuming they pass the state exam.” He also mentioned that one officer is currently in Field Training Officer (FTO) training and won’t be fully ready for independent duty for another two and a half months.
Weckesser also reported that two patrol cars were out of service, while three cruisers were being outfitted. This situation has left the department short on vehicles. Commissioner Bill Pursel emphasized the need for an assessment of the evidence room as security upgrades and renovations are planned. Pursel noted that Weckesser would work with County Administrator Jason Booth to ensure the evidence room’s security is properly addressed.
