Webster Parish Sheriff Jason Parker outlined his plans and priorities for 2025 as the guest speaker at the noon meeting of the Minden Lions Club on Thursday, January 9. The Lions Club, a local service organization, meets weekly at the American Legion Memorial Hall, 119 W. Pine Street.
Sheriff Parker used his presentation to answer a series of questions regarding public safety, community engagement, officer training, technology, and traffic safety. His remarks underscored the department’s commitment to staying ahead of criminal activity and fostering community partnerships.
“We will continue to aggressively pursue criminals and drug traffickers and provide the high level of law enforcement our citizens deserve and expect,” Parker said. He highlighted ongoing efforts to leverage training, technology, and software to enhance the capabilities of his deputies.
Sheriff Parker emphasized expanding the department’s outreach programs and training offerings in 2025. “We currently attend community events and provide training or programs when requested,” he said. With the addition of a training division deputy, Parker noted the department will broaden its offerings to civic groups, schools, churches, and other organizations.
He highlighted the completion of a training facility at the department’s firing range and the addition of a deputy with extensive certifications, including firearms instruction. “You can’t put a price tag on training,” Parker said. “We no longer have to depend on other agencies; we can keep our training in-house.”
Sheriff Parker outlined how advancements in technology are shaping the department’s operations. Recent updates include a subscription program to track suspects across multiple jurisdictions, upgrades to the department’s drone capabilities, and enhancements to the computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system.
The CAD system will soon include patrol vehicle tracking, which Parker said could significantly improve response times. “Two or three minutes may save somebody’s life or make the difference in solving a case,” he explained.
Addressing traffic safety, particularly during parades and festivals, Parker emphasized collaboration with municipal police departments. “Anytime that we’re called on to assist, the sheriff’s office will be there to support our local law enforcement,” he said.
During a Q&A session, Parker identified the need for a women’s prison in Webster Parish as a pressing issue. He pledged $2 million toward a proposed $7.9 million facility. Parker also discussed the state’s lack of juvenile detention beds, noting that Webster Parish has only two beds available and often incurs significant costs renting space from other parishes.
“The criminal element is constantly evolving, and we have to get ahead of them,” Parker said. He urged citizens to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious. “If you see something out of place, don’t hesitate to call,” he added.
The Lions Club meets at noon every Thursday and invites anyone interested in community service and learning from engaging speakers to join.