It’s hard to say goodbye to your partner. Hogan, or Hoagie as he’s affectionately called, just turned 20. He’s been a Wayne County Sheriff’s Mounted Unit member since 2008. Hogan is the leader of the herd and is ridden by Sgt. Lacey Polderdyke. She’ll tell you he’s patient with children, loves Rice Krispies treats, and never misses an opportunity to play in Newburgh Lake. WXYZ-TV captured the bond between the two, and we appreciate their care in telling Hogan’s story.
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It was such a special night. Our latest Academy class of 40 took the oath and received their badges in a beautiful ceremony on the steps of the CJC. Members of Wayne County Executive Warren Evans’ team were on hand to congratulate the graduates. When Sheriff Washington took to the podium, he immediately asked the new deputies, who were all sitting at attention, to relax. He wanted them to really listen as he spoke directly to them. “You are in control of your career here, and it is a career, not just a job,” Washington said. He wanted them to absorb that the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office has multiple career paths, and it is up to them to choose their destiny. The joy and love from the graduates’ friends and family was overflowing. So many happy tears and smiles as we all adjourned to the lobby of the new building for pictures and a lovely [...]
200 campers from 5-14 spent the weekend pitching tents, eating s’mores, playing games, dancing, getting their faces painted, and meeting our horses and dogs. It’s all a part of the Sheriff’s Office youth outreach to children in underserved communities. The reality is summer camps are expensive. For many families the ability to send their children to a sleepaway camp is just not financially feasible. We provide this opportunity so they can have that experience. Our people volunteer their time for the entire weekend to help run games, check in campers, prepare food, and give the kids a wonderful experience.
In addition to our law enforcement mission, this agency prioritizes youth and senior initiatives. Sheriff Washington, along with our dedicated Community Engagement Team are across the county daily supporting multiple events. One close to our heart is Detroit Senior Friendship Day. Held at The Aretha, along the waterfront, it is an all-day free event. Our SWAG was so popular it blew out the door. More than 1000 water bottles, specialty ID holders and other goodies. We loved seeing you all today.
For more than 40 years Metro Detroit Youth Day has been a summer touchstone. Our agency has consistently supported the event financially, as well as with our personnel. We believe youth programs are critical for Wayne County and we’re always proud to be a sponsor and a supporter. Congratulations to Ed Deeb and his entire staff who have poured their love into this event for decades.
Our whole team at the WCSO has been out across all 43 communities in Wayne County walking in and assisting in multiple parades. Our Mounted Unit, Motorcycle Unit, Honor Guard and so many of our people have been on hand in Trenton, Northville, Detroit, and more.
The Sheriff and the Marine Unit did a whole day of education for boaters ahead of the Memorial Day holiday. Thanks to CBS Detroit, WDIV, and WJBK for helping us spread the word. The Marine Deputies hate having to ticket boaters. That said, there has been an uptick in boats and personal watercraft like Jet Skis violating wake ordinances. Sheriff Washington and Sgt. Michael Roehrig explained violating those laws creates a real safety issue. In addition, it’s important to remember if you’re on a personal watercraft you must wear a lifejacket. When you’re on a boat you must have an adequate number of lifejackets, and they must be readily accessible. Fox 2’s Charlie Langton and the Sheriff went for a ride on the Detroit River (yes, they let Charlie blow the horn). Have a wonderful summer on the water.
