The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office is calling on local residents, media outlets, and community organizations to join its efforts to tackle two pressing public safety challenges: reducing traffic-related fatalities and injuries, and recruiting qualified deputy sheriffs.
In a message shared this week, Chief of Staff Lewis C. Blanchard emphasized the department’s commitment to saving lives and strengthening law enforcement in Augusta-Richmond County.
“While we are encouraged by a 16% decrease in traffic fatalities year-to-date compared to last year, even one life lost is too many,” Chief Blanchard wrote. “The recent, tragic death of an 8-year-old child on his birthday was a sobering reminder of the urgent need for increased awareness and voluntary compliance with traffic laws.”
Officials stress that behind every statistic is a real person – someone’s child, parent, or friend – and that changing driver behavior through public education and consistent enforcement is key to preventing more tragedies on the road.
At the same time, the Sheriff’s Office is continuing its push to recruit and retain more qualified law enforcement personnel.
“Despite recent progress in recruitment, we remain short of our staffing goals,” Chief Blanchard said. “The single most effective way to reduce crime and improve community safety is to ensure we have enough dedicated deputies protecting our streets.”
The department is asking for public support in amplifying its message through social media, local news coverage, public service announcements, billboards, and community bulletins. Leaders also welcome suggestions and collaboration from individuals or organizations interested in contributing to public safety initiatives.
“Together, we can make a lasting difference in Augusta-Richmond County,” Chief Blanchard concluded.
Anyone interested in learning more about how to get involved or in pursuing a career in law enforcement is encouraged to contact the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office directly.
