Kosciusko Leadership Academy cadets met in the restored courthouse to learn about law enforcement and the judicial system in Kosciusko County. Retired Circuit Court Judge Rex Reed shared the history of local courthouses. Kosciusko County’s courthouse was completed in 1882. The Second Empire courthouse serves as the meeting place for Kosciusko County Commissioners and County Council. City of Warsaw Police Chief Scott Whitaker stated there are 36 sworn officers and nine civilians employed in the police department. Whitaker shared information about methamphetamine, school safety, DARE and technology. Judge Duane Huffer explained the local court system, shared duties and division of responsibilities. Current statistics show more than 1 percent of the United States population is currently in jail. As the laws and penalties have increased, legislature mandates more people being sentenced to serve prison terms. Judge Michael Reed and Judge Duane Huffer led the group on a tour of the justice building courtrooms and judge’s chambers. The next KLA session will be Feb. 5 at the Syracuse Community Center to learn about the economics of Kosciusko County. KLA is a not-for-profit organization devoted to serving Kosciusko County by encouraging leaders and future leaders to dream and create a better community through white paper projects.
