(CENTREVILLE) – The St. Joseph County Commission was presented with the annual report from the Sheriff’s Department during their meeting Tuesday.

Undersheriff Jason Bingaman gave the report, but instead going over the numbers for crime statistics and how often the department was called out in the past year, he focused on three other topics. The first was hiring officers and employee retention. LINKC.

Bingaman says there are several reasons for that, such as it’s a high stress environment, officers are dealing with individuals in crisis and you have to make split second decisions.

Two other issues that the department has to deal with according to Bingaman is the drug problem in St. Joseph County; and having to answer calls from individuals dealing with mental health issues.

Bingaman ended his presentation with this message to the Commissioners. LINKD.

Bingaman says there has been a legacy of professionalism at the Sheriff’s Department and he will continue to see that happen.

The Commission unanimously approved the Sheriff’s Department report.