LAURINBURG – After two years of effort, the Scotland County Department of Social Services and the Scotland County Sheriff’s Office have hired a deputy to handle safety issues that arise at the agency.

Deputy Curtis Garth was formerly assigned to the sheriff’s office. Garth began the job at the Department of Social Services at the end of January, according to April Snead, director for the county DSS.

The need for a deputy was recognized after employees noticed a rise in altercations, property damage and threatening behavior in the last year.

Law enforcement was called in to handle some situations, but at times it fell to staff to defuse the situation.

Garth covers Department of Social Services and the Scotland County Health Department.

“We have a better sense of security since he’s here,” Snead said. “It’s going great, we’re pleased to have him here.”

The officer will “assist as seen fit by the employees of the department,” Sheriff Ralph Kersey said.

His job duties include reducing criminal activity, fights, and disputes, serving warrants and making arrests as needed at the health department and department of social services.

“My office has heard the concerns of the citizens and employees of the health department, and we are now providing a solution,” Kersey said.

The Scotland Department of Social Services serves an estimated 40,000 people a year, roughly 100 people a day.

Snead said because of the number the potential for liability was substantial if the security measure had not been taken.

Garth is assigned to the facility through the sheriff’s office and will be on duty during operating hours Mondays to Fridays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“We are fortunate that this position is funded by the state of North Carolina and Department of Social Services,” said Sheriff Ralph Kersey.

Deputy Curtis Garth has been reassigned from the sheriff’s office to oversee safety concerns at DSS. The placement is a result of collaboration between DSS and the Sheriff’s office.
https://www.laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_Deputy.jpgDeputy Curtis Garth has been reassigned from the sheriff’s office to oversee safety concerns at DSS. The placement is a result of collaboration between DSS and the Sheriff’s office.

https://www.laurinburgexchange.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/02/web1_DSS-123_1_9-Copy.jpg

By Beth Lawrence

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Reach Beth Lawrence 910-506-3169