National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day Recognizes Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Deputies

Photo: Courtesy OTC Sheriff’s Office-no names included

National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day has been recognized each year on January 9^th since 2015. The day is highlighted as an opportunity to thank officers across the country for their dedication to public safety. Law enforcement officers in Otter Tail County have answered a call to public service in a profession that puts their lives on the line for the communities they serve. Otter Tail County would like to recognize and thank law enforcement officers for their dedication and service.

“On behalf of the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners, I would like to thank the many law enforcement officers for their passion and commitment to keeping our families, communities and businesses safe,” said Board of Commissioners’ Chair Betty Murphy. “The work that you do is admired and well respected. We are very grateful for all of you.”

Many in the public may not know the scope of the work of deputies in the county. According to the January 9, 2022, daily activity report from the Sheriff’s Office, so far this year deputies have responded to fifty vehicles off the road, 2 suicide threats/attempts, thirty-one EMS assists, served 4 orders of protection, made 5 DWI arrests and responded to twenty-nine calls for assistance to the public. This is a small sample of the work the deputies carried out over a nine-day period. (Daily Activity Report: ottertailcountymn.us/sheriffs-office/)

“Thank you to all those that put on their badge every day and go out and protect our communities,” added Sheriff Barry Fitzgibbons. “I want to also say thank you to the people of Otter Tail County for your continued support of our law enforcement officers. In a time, where some in law enforcement do not feel the support of those that they serve, in Otter Tail County, our deputies are often reminded of the community support. I am very proud of the men and women of the Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office.”

The Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office mission is “to provide excellent service through partnerships that build trust, reduce crime, create a safe environment, and enhance the quality of life in our county.” Law enforcement officers in the County go above and beyond their duties and are involved in their communities. Deputies visit local classrooms, provide D.A.R.E education, host “Shop with a Cop” during the holidays and may be seen at National Night Out events and city parades. Deputies also display vehicles at Touch-a-Truck events and the county fairs. Integrity, respect, fairness, and excellence are principles proudly displayed as the men and women of the Sheriff’s Office interact with individuals and communities.

There are several ways to show your support:

• Follow the laws.
• Reach out to law enforcement in your communities and get to know them.
• Show appreciation for the work they do. A smile and handshake go a long way.
• Volunteer on the posse.
• Sign up for the Special Olympics Polar Plunge on Otter Tail Lake February 5^th sponsored by MN law enforcement and the Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office.