National Sheriffs' Association

Eddy County to ‘IGNITE’ change at jail A nationwide program designed to help jailed inmates attain education and life skills after release has made its way to Eddy County. The program, wielding the unwieldy name “Inmate Growth Naturally and Intentionally Through Education” – better known as IGNITE – was founded in 2020 by a sheriff in Genesee County, Michigan, and later replicated by the National Sheriff’s Association. Sheriff Mark Cage began the process of bringing it to Eddy County last January. https://lnkd.in/etVAup-B

Canyon County Sheriff Kieran Donahue is pictured at his office, Feb. 22, 2024. Sarah A. Miller smiller@idahostatesman.com The fentanyl crisis is ravaging communities across Idaho and the country at an alarming rate, with trafficking and overdose deaths reaching unprecedented levels. Idaho is grappling with a deadly surge in fentanyl-related deaths, which increased more than 300% from 2020 to 2023, devastating families across the state and stretching law enforcement resources thin. As sheriff of Canyon County and president of the National Sheriffs’ Association, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges our communities face. From the rise in fentanyl trafficking to increasing violence at our southern border, the threats to public safety are escalating. Representing over 3,081 Sheriffs nationwide, I know that now more than ever, we need decisive action to protect our citizens. As a sheriff and law enforcement officer with more than 20 years of experience, I’ve witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of fentanyl poisoning and fatalities. We have stretched our resources to combat this epidemic, but drug dealers and criminals continue to find ways to circumvent our efforts. One of the most glaring vulnerabilities is a loophole in U.S. trade law that allows fentanyl to flow into Idaho and the nation with ease. Known as the “de minimis” rule, this outdated regulation is being exploited by cartels and traffickers, placing an unbearable strain on law enforcement. Congress and the executive branch have the power to close this loophole and save countless lives — yet, they have not acted. Most Americans may be unfamiliar with the de minimis rule, but law enforcement officers like me know it all too well. Formally known as Section 321 of the Tariff Act of 1930, this rule was initially designed to ease the inspection burden on U.S. Customs for low-value items, such as souvenirs. Nearly a century later, e-commerce has surged, and the rule is being abused to smuggle dangerous substances like fentanyl into the country. A recent Reuters investigation highlighted how fentanyl traffickers are exploiting this loophole to ship lethal drugs directly into American homes. China is the world’s primary producer of illicit fentanyl and the chemicals used to manufacture it, and these substances are being funneled into the U.S. through both our southern border and direct shipments via international mail — often taking advantage of the de minimis rule. The statistics are staggering. Last year alone, more than 107,000 Americans died from illicit substances, with fentanyl being the leading cause of death for adults aged 18 to 45. In Idaho, fentanyl was responsible for more than 50% of all overdose deaths in 2023. Laboratory testing indicates that 5 out of 10 pills tested in 2024 contain a potentially deadly dose of fentanyl, according to the DEA. Read more: https://lnkd.in/ewmKW-X5

Until 2018, minors charged in adult court could be held in adult facilities. Learn what you should know about the updated (11)(b) compliance rules. Join us for a conversation with compliance experts from the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP)! Register Here: https://lnkd.in/eNfUF457

NSA is seeking Sheriffs or their staff with knowledge in key areas to collaborate and share valuable insights with peers. If you have experience in any of the following topics and are interested in contributing to the education and awareness of fellow Sheriffs, we would love to hear from you: Illicit Vaping Financial Scams Extreme Risk Protection Orders Please contact Jessica Vanderpool at jessica@sheriffs.org if you are interested in learning more.

New NSA resource on requirements for how Medicaid and CHIP agencies provide services for young people who are incarcerated:

The seminar submission portal is now open for the 2025 National Sheriffs' Association Annual Conference, happening June 23-26, 2025, in Fort Lauderdale, Florida! This is your opportunity to step into the spotlight and share your expertise with law enforcement professionals and public safety leaders from across the nation. Don’t miss your chance to make an impact—submit your proposal today: https://lnkd.in/egTpPqDC

At the 2024 Annual Conference in Oklahoma City, OK, the National Sheriffs’ Association proudly presented the Law Enforcement Explorer Post Advisor Award to Corporal Lytonya Haywood of the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, Alabama. Under Corporal Haywood’s leadership, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Explorer Program has achieved remarkable success, attracting hundreds of youth and equipping them with resources for educational and career advancement—especially within law enforcement. Through initiatives like ACT and SAT preparation, this program empowers young individuals to excel and thrive. Corporal Haywood’s unwavering drive, dedication, and passion have been instrumental in shaping this impactful program, inspiring the next generation of leaders in law enforcement. #nsaawards Submit an application for the 2025 NSA Awards here: https://lnkd.in/epwehkSd

The National Sheriffs’ Association is proud to announce it has partnered with Ammunation to supply high-quality ammunition to Sheriffs nationwide!   This partnership gives the Sheriffs and Law Enforcement of NSA access to exclusive pricing through a private portal.   Simply create an account, receive verification, and start shopping!   More Information: https://lnkd.in/exSv2GBb

At the 2024 Annual Conference in Oklahoma City, OK, the National Sheriffs’ Association proudly presented the prestigious Triple Crown Award to the Cobb County, Georgia Sheriff’s Office. This honor recognizes sheriff’s offices that achieve simultaneous accreditation from the Commission on the Accreditation of Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), the American Correctional Association’s Commission on Accreditation for Corrections (ACA), and the National Commission on Correctional Healthcare (NCCHC). Earning any one of these accreditations is a significant achievement, but attaining all three at the same time is truly extraordinary! Sheriff Craig D. Owens Sr. accepted the award on behalf of the Cobb County Sheriff’s Office, showcasing their unwavering commitment to excellence in law enforcement, corrections, and healthcare. #nsaawards Submit an application for the 2025 NSA Awards here: https://lnkd.in/epwehkSd

Today, we honor the courage, sacrifice, and dedication of all veterans, past and present. Their selflessness has shaped our nation’s history and preserved the values we hold dear. Let us pause to reflect on their contributions and express our deepest gratitude. Thank you to all who have served—your bravery and commitment will never be forgotten. #veteransday