How it Works

Tribute to Police Officers How

by Paul Harvey

It All Works

Contributed by Burleson County Sheriff’s Department Gene Hermes, Sheriff

The people elect leaders of our nation, their state and the county and city where they reside. These leaders are elected to represent the people; therefore, the voters are ultimately their boss. Trust is placed in these individuals to do the job they are elected to do. They must be good stewards of taxpayers’ money and make decisions that are right, legal and ethical. They must also be willing to listen to everyone, not just the people who voted for them.

The United States Constitution established America’s fundamental laws and government. It was also drafted to guarantee certain rights for its citizens. The Texas legislature, a body of elected representatives, passes laws. It is the job of law enforcement to uphold and enforce these laws. Our system of government has been in place for over two-hundred and forty-six years. The United States Constitution begins with these words “we the people,” therefore the people are the foundation.

As law enforcement officers, we must remember that we are sworn to “protect and serve” our citizens and equally enforce the laws as they are written. we must never attempt to interpret laws in our own personal way. Furthermore, we must equally apply the law to all citizens. Consistency and transparency are keys to building relationships between law enforcement and members of the community.

The sheriff in a county is elected by the people to enforce laws and serve as a representative and symbol of law enforcement. The Texas Code of Criminal Procedure provides those duties the sheriff and his deputies are to carry out, and the Texas Penal Code outlines the laws to be enforced. when law enforcement partners up with its citizens to help detect, deter and reduce crime, the citizens thrive and communities grow. we can always ‘get the job done,’ but how effectively and efficiently we ‘do the job’ depends on the relationship with our people.

The vast majority of citizens are good, hardworking and God fearing people. These citizens support law enforcement and are willing to get involved, some in different ways than others to help their communities. Law enforcement officers cannot be successful without the support of the citizens they are sworn to protect, and society would not exist without law enforcement officers who answer the call.

Remember, elected officials work for the people, people must be willing to work together, and we can never forget we all work for God.

The policeman stood at the Pearly Gates his face was worn and old. “What have you done” St. Peter asked “to seek admission here?” “I was a cop back down on earh for many many a year.” The gates flew open widely and St. Peter tolled the bell “Come in and take a harp.” he said “You’ve had enough of hell!”