KLA Cadets Learn About Kosciusko Judicial SystemOn Jan. 7, the Kosciusko Leadership Academy cadets heard an overview of the judicial system in Kosciusko County.
Kosciusko County Circuit Judge Michael Reed gave a brief history of Kosciusko County’s judicial system, which dates back to its start in Leesburg in 1836. The makeup of the court system has changed over time to now be comprised of one circuit court and four superior courts.
Reed spoke on two issues facing the justice system including the drug problem and opioid problem.
Reed explained that problem solving is an important aspect of the court system. Because “history has shown incarcerating a drug offender is ineffective,” a drug court was established in 2014 designed to reduce recidivism. This program works with non-violent offenders for 18 to 24 months through supervision and rehabilitation services.
Warsaw Chief of Police Scott Whitaker spoke on the challenges facing the police department.
One problem is the lack of officers to hire. There are many positions open in the police department for new officers.
Kosciusko County Sheriff Kyle Dukes talked about the success the county has had in reducing the jail population and the successful work release programs. He also spoke on how the role of a sheriff has changed to a more administrative role over the years.
The KLA cadets will meet Jan. 21 at the Syracuse Community Center for an overview of economics in Kosciusko County.
The Kosciusko Leadership Academy is in its 37th year of continuous service to the county. As an independent 501-3(c) organization, KLA conducts bi-weekly morning sessions around the county to expose leaders to a wide variety of local topics and experts.
The annual whitepaper projects have yielded many benefits to the citizens of Kosciusko County, according to a news release from KLA. For more information, visit www.kocsciuskoleadership.org
