Family members of local sheriff deputies raised concern after Sheriff David Stanko released a monthly work schedule to a citizen.

In a letter to the editor signed by nine family members of Jefferson County sheriff's deputies (which can be read in full on pages A9-10), the signees believe safety is at risk after learning Stanko provided a July schedule to the public, letting people know where deputies are when.

“Not only could this broad range of information regarding coverage problems put deputies, their families and properties at risk, it could do the same for every citizen, their properties and their businesses,” the letter stated.

Stanko confirmed with The Leader he did provide a schedule to a citizen after coverage concerns arose for the south county area. He wanted to provide information to the citizen to show how local coverage was handled. 

“When we have more than three deputies assigned, we actually assign a deputy down in south county,” Stanko explained, noting the schedule showed that information. “There are no operational breaches. This is a public document.”

Stanko said 98 percent of the job for the deputies is communicating, being part of the public and getting to know the community. Jefferson County deputies give out their information to the citizens in the areas they serve so communication is open if help is needed.

Stanko said the deputies also take their vehicles home at night, and deputies photos are often published so the community knows who they are.

“Transparency in law enforcement is paramount,” Stanko said, noting he apologizes if he offended anybody but acknowledged he had a job to do to provide public information to citizens.