CITRUS COUNTY, Fla. — Citrus County is the first sheriff's office to partner with Veterans Florida to fill open deputy sheriff positions.
The collaboration aligns the strengths of both organizations to benefit highly trained veterans seeking employment in the workforce.
Sgt. Matthew Baird was hired by the sheriff’s office 12 years ago, he’s also an army veteran.
“There’s a sense of belonging when you’re in the military that is very difficult to find in the civilian life I think coming into a law enforcement career from military you do have that same sense of belonging that you had in the military.” said Baird.
The Citrus County Sheriff’s Office already has 67 veterans on staff, 48 of those are sworn in officers.
“With skills such as professionalism, attention to detail, and the ability to work in stressful environments, veterans are a valuable asset to any organization,” said Sheriff Mike Prendergast of Citrus County.
The sheriff's office hopes other agencies will follow by making veterans a priority.
“I think that it’s important that we offer veterans as many opportunities as possible so that we can help them transition back into a non-military lifestyle,” said Baird.
Those interested in a CCSO career can visit www.SheriffCitrus.org or can call 352-341-7429 for more information.
Veterans Florida is also inviting other law enforcement agencies to partner with. Those interested can visit www.VeteransFlorida.org.
