The patrol division of the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office is comprised of the patrol captain, two patrol lieutenants, six sergeants, and 26 deputies. The patrol division serves as the backbone of law enforcement services within the county. Patrol’s primary duty is to provide visible law enforcement presence through regular patrols of neighborhoods, rural areas, and business districts. Deputies respond to calls for service, ranging from emergency situations such as accidents, crimes in progress, and disturbances, to routine matters like welfare checks and community concerns. They enforce traffic laws, investigate suspicious activity, and take enforcement action when necessary to deter and reduce crime. In addition, patrol deputies prepare detailed reports, collect evidence, and provide testimony in court to support the prosecution of criminal cases.
Beyond enforcement, the patrol division also plays a vital role in community relations and crime prevention. Deputies often serve as the first point of contact between the Sheriff’s Office and the public, fostering trust and cooperation through proactive engagement and problem-solving. They conduct preventative patrols in high-crime areas, provide security for community events, and assist other divisions of the Sheriff’s Office when needed.