Issues and Priorities

Many residents in Pike County are concerned any real changes can be made due to the limited staffing and budget.  Citizens live with the reality that, due to limited resources, response time of county services can be incredibly long.  Pike County has not had an increase in the number of patrol deputies in over 12 years.* There have been years at a time when no Deputy patrolled between the hours of 3 am and 6 am.*  During these periods, it had to be determined whether to wake an officer or postpone the response until a deputy was on duty.

As Sheriff, Stephen Korte will enhance the quality of life in Pike County by partnering with the community and working in accordance with his constitutional right to enforce the laws, preserve the peace, reduce concerns, and provide for a safe environment.  Stephen will work diligently with all county officials regardless of political party, to achieve the common goal of improving services for the citizens of our rapidly growing county.  Specifically, he will work patiently and cordially with the county commissioners and county clerk to utilize the county’s physical and financial assets for the safety and security of all residents.

In addition, Stephen will work tirelessly with fellow emergency service providers to support them in their missions; starting by means of unilateral partnerships with municipal police departments to support each other in our common goal of protecting citizens, enforcing laws, investigating, and preventing crimes.  Partnerships are also promised in supporting Emergency Medical Services and Fire Departments in saving life and property.

* Note:  An additional patrol deputy and 24-hour patrol was added since the launch of the campaign in April 2008.