A 22-year law enforcement veteran who runs the Cowley County jail has resigned from the sheriff’s office for an opportunity in the corporate training field.
“This is a once in a lifetime opportunity career-wise,” Capt. Steve Roberts, who also has the title of jail administrator, said. ‘It’s strictly a professional move.”
Roberts informed county commissioners Wednesday that he is retiring and publicly announced his plans this morning. He did not reveal who his new employer is but said the position is outside the law enforcement field.
His last day is May 30.
“I want to thank sheriff Bob Odell for giving me the opportunity to serve the citizens of Cowley County. His leadership, mentoring and support have not only made me a better officer but a better person as well,” he said.
Roberts’ decision will have some political ramifications. Undersheriff Don Read has said Roberts would serve as undersheriff if Read is elected sheriff later this year.
With Roberts leaving, the search is on for another running mate, Read said Thursday. The two men joined the department on the same day 21 years ago.
“Steve and are very good friends and I’m always sorry to see anyone go,” he said. “But I can’t blame him at all. The job will pay more than any position we have around here ? even sheriff.”
Read said he’s certain he’ll be able to find a quality person to serve as undersheriff, should read win the election.
Roberts also thanked the county commission for their support of law enforcement and as well as county administrator Leroy Alsup.
“His oversight with the new jail project, while handling his many other duties, has been exceptional and has led to the construction of a new and effective detention facility,” he said.
The new jail project is 75 percent completed with inmates now occupying the completed portion. Population at the jail today is 105, according to Roberts.
The last of the housing units are under construction.
“The majority of the building is up,” he said. “It was an incredible learning experience. It was very taxing at times.”
Odell praised Roberts’ service to the county.
“He’s served us well,” he said. “He has been very loyal to the department and myself.”
Roberts was instrumental in designing and planning and opening the new detention facility, he said.
“We’re at least on the last leg before he leaves,” Odell said. “He has improved himself through education and experience to the degree that he’s able to go out and find a better job in the world market that pays him more. He’s got 22 years of service so he can retire and go on. We’ll miss him sorely.”
Applications will be available for anyone wishing to apply for Roberts’ job. Odell said he has no one in mind at the present time and will make a decision from the applicants.
Roberts also thanked his wife, Jodi, for her dedication and support and putting up with the challenges of being a law enforcement officer’s wife.
“While I look forward to the new opportunity ahead of me, It has truly been a pleasure and I will miss working along side my fellow law enforcement officers from all agencies and serving the citizens of Cowley County,” he said.
Roberts is from Colby and came to Winfield to attend Southwestern College. He helped coach the Southwestern football team until last year.
Shane Farley contributed to this report.
