Detective Roper Ellison with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office recently presented a program to the Rotary Club of Livingston.
Born and bred here, Ellison said he attended school here, played ball here and chose to raise his family here as well.
Giving an overview of activity for the month of August, Ellison said the sheriff’s office conducted 77 walk-throughs and school zones for the multiple schools in the county. Other statistics from August include 52 disorderly conducts, 15 instances of suspicious activity, 11 unauthorized use of motor vehicles, 35 warrants served, 561 traffic stops made, 524 building checks conducted, 1,022 extra patrols and 233 jail book-ins.
Ellison said some of the current challenges that deputies face include fentanyl, mental health calls, staffing shortages and the demand for training and equipment, and the balance between enforcement, prevention and community trust.
Illustrating the work behind the scenes, Ellison said the life cycle of a narcotics case starts with a tip, which leads to an investigation, then a search warrant, then an arrest and then prosecution. He talked about the amount of manpower and resources that are required. He also emphasized how teamwork with other agencies – police departments, DPS, parks and wildlife and DEA – strengthens local safety.
He encouraged people to submit tips because they lead to investigations. “I can’t help you if I don’t know about it.”
Ellison also spoke on the importance of building bridges within the community. “Law enforcement isn’t just about arrests. It’s about partnerships and prevention,” he said. Examples he gave include ride-alongs, the civilian academy and the junior deputy academy.
As for what the community can do to help, he said awareness, prevention, engagement and partnerships.
“Teach your families and employees about fentanyl, fake pills and the dangers of mixing substances. Support youth programs, education campaigns and mentorships. Encourage community members to report suspicious activity,” he said, adding, “Businesses and civic leaders can host forums, sponsor events or provide space for prevention programs.”
Offering a call to action for Rotary, he encouraged everyone to become advocates in their various networks such as schools, churches and businesses. He also suggested helping by spreading accurate information and countering myths about law enforcement or drugs.
“Community is our eyes and ears. Law enforcement can’t be everywhere, but leaders can influence their circles,” he said.
