A busy December capped off a challenging year for the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office, according to a new newsletter released by Sheriff Jim Allard.
In the January update, Allard reflected on the holiday season, thanked residents for their support, and outlined major accomplishments, community events, and ongoing challenges facing the agency.
Community events and outreach
December included several high-profile community efforts. Deputies hosted Toys for Tots and Coats for Kids events at Walmart locations in Erwin and Hornell, collecting more than 400 toys and over 100 coats for local families.
The Sheriff’s Office also joined regional agencies for Shop with a Cop at the Hornell Walmart, serving more than 60 families. Corrections staff donated $1,030 to the Wilmot Cancer Center and delivered holiday meals to residents in need.
Training and professional development
The newsletter highlighted extensive training completed by staff. Several officers completed crisis intervention and stress response training hosted by the Sheriff’s Office.
Other training included jail administration courses, CPR and first aid refreshers, boater safety instruction, swift water rescue training, and snowmobile safety education. The jail also continued its part-time basic course for corrections officers.
Reflecting on 2025 challenges
Sheriff Allard said 2025 brought major challenges, including an increase in jail population and staffing pressures. The office investigated serious crimes ranging from murders to bank robbery and animal cruelty cases.
The Sheriff’s Office also navigated impacts from the state corrections strike, finalized new collective bargaining agreements, completed staffing and facility assessments, achieved re-accreditation, and installed a new countywide law enforcement records management system.
Looking ahead
Despite the challenges, Allard said the agency stayed focused on its core values of professionalism, integrity, leadership, and service. He praised deputies and officers for their performance and noted multiple public commendations.
The newsletter closed with appreciation for community support and a look ahead to the work planned for 2026.
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