Sheriff wants you

COEUR d'ALENE — The Kootenai County Sheriff's Office is looking a few good men and women.

KCSO is hosting a “Preparing for a Career in Law Enforcement” event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday.

"This is the first step toward changing the course of your life," a press release said.

It is billed as an opportunity to meet with officials from the agency, learn how to prepare for an oral board and test your physical ability.

There will also be jail tours, staff demonstrations and a chance to try on a uniform.

The KCSO has struggled filling positions in the past, particularly in the area of detention deputies.

In 2021, a deputy shortage at the Kootenai County jail led the KCSO to offer retired staffers with active accreditation $30 an hour to fill shifts.

At one point last year, it had 11 vacancies and 11 new hires in training, down a total of 22.

That puts stress on the jail, which is certified to hold about 450 inmates.

According to its website, KCSO currently has openings for an emergency communications officer that pays between $26.36 to $32.33 an hour; deputy sheriff for the jail that pays between $57,000 and $73,000 annually; a custody technician that pays $18.48 to $21.88; and a deputy sheriff for patrol, entry level, that pays $57,616 a year.

Training is provided for some of the openings.

This event will take place at the Kootenai County Public Safety Building, 5500 N. Government Way.

Info: www.kcsheriff.com.