Jason Smith, the next sheriff of Washington Parish, says he plans to keep all of the current personnel at the Sheriff’s Office when he takes over on July 1.
Some WPSO employees have expressed concerns about whether they will have a job when Smith is sworn in, but he said, “My plan is to keep everyone.”
He added, “I know some people have left in anticipation of me being sworn in, and I am sure there will be others that choose to leave.”
“But,” he said, “my plan is to put people where they can be the most successful. Any changes we make will be for operational, not political, reasons.”
Since being elected this past November in a runoff, Smith has been busy planning his administration and learning more about the Sheriff’s Office.
He is currently enrolled in the Slidell Regional Police Academy to attend their Peace Officer Standard and Training certification course that’s required for anyone that wants to be a full-time police officer in Louisiana.
“I will finish that course on May 3rd,” he said. “ I also attended the Louisiana Sheriff's Institute for newly elected sheriffs, conducted by the Louisiana Sheriff's Association. It was a week of classes and information covering all types of administrative and official requirements.”
He noted that being a former Marine actually has helped him in his training at the Slidell Police Academy. “As a former Marine I'm in good physical condition, I have used firearms before, and I have an understanding of the use of force in particular situations.”
All that has been helpful, but even more helpful has been my experience in participating in these types of training courses as a student and as an instructor, because it has allowed me to look at this course through a particular lens and help some of my fellow cadets through the course.”
Smith will officially take office on Monday, July 1, but he is planning to have his swearing in ceremony on Friday, June 28. There will also be a public function on Saturday, June 29, so he can put the ceremonial events behind him and get to work on July 1.
He noted that the transition between his incoming administration and that of outgoing Sheriff Randy Seal has been smooth. “We have been able to get a look at everything we’ve asked for so far,” he said.
Smith said that one of the best parts of running for sheriff was being able to speak to so many people about their suggestions for the Sheriff’s Office.
“That hasn’t stopped since the election,” he said.
Looking forward to his swearing in and beyond, Smith said, “I’m just getting started. We’re getting a professional team in place and we’ve had some key people agree to stay on. I’m excited about what’s in store for Washington Parish.”
