The Steuben County Sheriff’s Office capped a demanding May with an ambitious mix of public safety initiatives, education campaigns, and high-profile investigations, according to its latest newsletter released on June 6.
The department honored fallen officers, educated over 2,500 students, and tackled dozens of active investigations while also preparing for major public safety conferences and community events.
The office began the month by reflecting on the significance of D-Day and hosting the tenth annual Law Enforcement Memorial Service to honor officers who died in the line of duty. “It is easy to take for granted what our first responders and their families give to keep us safe,” the newsletter noted, recognizing those who “never made it home at the end of their shift.” A standout moment came from Hammondsport sophomore Lisako Leister, who performed the National Anthem.
A major focus this spring has been “Emilee’s Challenge,” a traveling educational trailer targeting high school students with the dangers of impaired and distracted driving. More than 2,500 students across Steuben and neighboring counties have experienced the program. The trailer was selected for presentation at the upcoming New York State Highway Safety Symposium in October.
In addition to education outreach, several deputies and officers participated in specialized training and state-level conferences. These included the NYS Boater’s Safety Course, a Civil Supervisor Conference, a Child Passenger Safety Technical Conference, and a national K9 certification. Officers also took part in the high-intensity “Mock Prison Riot” training event in Moundsville, West Virginia.
May’s criminal caseload reflected the pressure on local law enforcement. Investigators handled a murder case, multiple weapons and burglary investigations, and a slate of sensitive incidents including rape, sex offenses, and endangering the welfare of children. Deputies also conducted 12 harassment and 15 larceny-related investigations, as well as responded to domestic incidents, medical emergencies, and three impaired driving arrests.
“Our Patrol Division was tasked with multiple domestic incident investigations along with mental health detainments, emergency medical aid, assisting other agencies, serving of warrants,” the department reported.
Officers received several public commendations for their efforts during these challenges.
Sheriff Jim Allard remained active in public engagements, speaking at community events, regional association meetings, and local media programs such as “Frankly Speaking” and “Talk of the Tiers.” The Sheriff’s Office also led a Use of Force training for the County Probation Department and coordinated a Child Passenger Safety checkpoint.
“We continue to pray for our first responder colleagues and deployed military across the globe, as well as their families,” the newsletter concluded.
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