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SHERIFF OFFICE AWARDS

SHERIFF OFFICE AWARDS

by | May 1, 2025 | Blog

WAYNE COUNTY, OH, May. 1, 2025 — The Wayne County Sheriff’s Office proudly recognized several dedicated employees for their outstanding hard work, unwavering compassion, and commitment to community service. These individuals have gone above and beyond their regular duties, demonstrating exceptional professionalism and empathy in their interactions with the public and colleagues. From responding swiftly to emergencies to providing support and reassurance to those in need, their efforts have significantly fostered trust and safety. The recognition celebrates their achievements and highlights the Sheriff’s Office’s core values of integrity, respect, and service. Sheriff Tom Ballinger honors these exemplary employees through awards and commendations. Their dedication continues to inspire and elevate law enforcement standards in the county. Those recognized included:

Wayne County Maintenance Department – Often working behind the scenes, the team of Ryan Gifford, Mike Gamble, Stuart ‘Stu’ Schaffter, and Eric Ahrens presence has been felt across the county. They were instrumental in helping Chief Joseph Copenhaver establish the county-wide litter control program.

Deputy Zachary Derflinger – For his professionalism and caring conduct while conducting a welfare check on an individual with known health issues. Upon further investigation, he found the resident deceased inside the residence. Photo: Deputy Paul Brumme, Deputy Zachary Derflinger, Sheriff Tom Ballinger.

Dispatcher Melisa Terrell – Apple Creek Police Department Sgt. Ryan Pearson presented 911 Communications Center Dispatcher Melisa Terrell with a Certificate of Appreciation for her compassion and professionalism during a call he answered as a member of the Dalton Police Department. According to Pearson, he was involved in a “difficult and emotionally charged situation stemming from an officer-involved shooting in Wooster, which later connected to a traffic crash involving one of my Dalton police officers.” Pearson called the family of the officer involved and recalled listening to the father break down and cry. “It was one of the most heartbreaking moments I’ve experienced. Melisa stood out, not only for her procedural actions but for her humanity. She was the only person to ask me how I was holding up.” Photo: Sgt. Ryan Pearson, Dispatcher Melisa Terrell, Sheriff Tom Ballinger.

Corrections Officer Nathan Raczynski – Recognized for his intake ability and searches that prevent drugs from entering the facility, Raczynski has found four incidents during intake searches involving drugs and prevented them from entering the jail, according to Officer Nathan Hodgman. Photo: Officer Nathan Hodgman, Officer Nathan Raczynski, Sheriff Tom Ballinger.

Dan Starcher is the Public Communications Coordinator for Wayne County.

Hiring: Dispatcher (F/T)

Hiring: Dispatcher (F/T)

by | May 3, 2021 | Blog

WAYNE COUNTY, OH, May 3, 2021 — Wayne County Communications is currently accepting applications for a full-time dispatcher.
    
The position of public safety dispatcher requires a person who is able to gather pertinent information quickly and accurately and relay that information to others. The position demands the performance of several tasks simultaneously in an organized manner despite interruptions. A successful candidate for this position will have the ability to remain calm and even-tempered, emotionally stable, dependable, and courteous during the many stressful events that may occur. A significant amount of a dispatcher’s time is spent dealing with the public via telephone; therefore, a dispatcher must be willing and able to be cooperative and helpful to those who call.

Wayne County Communications personnel are required to work all shifts, weekends, and holidays. Good hearing, speech, and computer keyboarding skills are also necessary.

If you feel as though you can meet the demands of this profession, download an application HERE [PDF] Accessible View. Each qualified applicant will, at a later date, be interviewed, and then be required to submit to a polygraph examination, criminal and traffic record check, and employment background investigation.