On Monday morning, Sheriff Kenny Furlong walked across the court house parking lot and filed for re-election of the position he’s held for the last 11 years. Kenny and Undersheriff Steve Albertsen expressed their enthusiasm, not only for the community wide accomplishments that have been witnessed, but also for the positive direction that Carson City appears to be headed.
Sheriff Furlong points out that his philosophy of police and community engagement has been the cornerstone of continuous progress throughout the years. When both the community and law enforcement officers combine their efforts, great accomplishments are made.
The calendar year of 2013 was an example of his drive. Carson City’s nationally measured crime index fell to its lowest point since 1997. Property losses at homes and in businesses reflected similar trends with dollar losses dropping by 30% and 40% in comparison to the past two years. The partnerships developed in this community under Sheriff Furlong’s leadership have improved the quality of life in Carson for all.
The Sheriff has been faced with leading the department during an economic period that has challenged the entire country. It was only two years into his first term of office when he was faced with rollbacks to the budget. From 2005 to the present, the budget cuts to public safety have had little effect on his drive to make improvements.
Sheriff Furlong notes that the year following the departments deepest cuts, without eliminating services, our response times improved and the overall amount of time we spent with the victims of crime grew. Kenny believes challenges such as the cost of public safety require innovation and creativity.
Sheriff Furlong looks forward to the challenges ahead. Among his primary drives is the creation of a funded School Resource Officer program. While the department works closely with several youth programs all year round, Kenny suggests that having dedicated officers at the schools is essential and critical to our community.
To the residents and visitors of Carson City, Sheriff Furlong and Undersheriff Albertsen express their deepest appreciation for the support, engagement and participation received over the years. The leadership group of the Sheriff’s Office places the community first in every endeavor and looks forward to continuing this path.
Committee to Re-Elect Sheriff Furlong