Sheriff`s Corner

Hello everyone, welcome to the Sheriff's Corner. I hope everyone had a great holiday season. I also hope you had no problems, legal or otherwise during this time.

This week's Corner is in response to a situation that was brought to our attention concerning some of the school zones in Levy County. After the first letter was sent we evaluated what we were actually doing at our school zones. We knew that some had crossing guards and others had lights and signs. We also knew that we put officers in their units in the area to detect and correct those people who missed or disregarded the warnings. All of these efforts do their designated jobs.

However, recently I received a letter that has suggested that there are those who drive slowly when they think an officer is in the area. And, for the most part, people who see a crossing guard follow the guard's directions. The problem is that when no visible person, vehicle or authority is present, people are speeding through the school zones at dangerous and illegal speeds.

It's my opinion that a school zone is a very important space through our highway. Our children are totally defenseless against an automobile when in this area. So we will do our best to protect them.

Therefore, please think about this situation. Please slow down in these areas. I also intend to beef up enforcement in these areas, including the use of unmarked or undercover vehicles. Please help us in this effort. Our children are so important. Take care and have a great week.