WLKM Radio 95.9 FM
St. Joseph County Sheriff’s Department has recognized five of its staff members as “Employees of the Year” recipients for 2023.
Cpt. T.J. Baker said three road patrol deputies – Jeff Bingaman, Travis Miller and Zach Radtke – were involved in a case that warranted their consideration for the award. Baker declined to provide details about the case but noted the trio was instrumental in handling the matter.
Meanwhile, corrections deputies Spencer Schrader and Paul Kindig were also bestowed the honor.
Baker explained the requirements that go into consideration for the award start with a review all of 2023’s employees of the month winners. All of the department’s sergeants then assemble and review nominations for employee of the year before taking a collective vote.
Baker said he, undersheriff Jason Bingaman and Capt. Kitty Buchner, jail administrator, help facilitate the process but do not cast a vote.
The ceremony took place April 11 in the sheriff’s department training center.
They’re worthy of an award for a particular incident that took 3 officers to handle but must remain secret?
I now know at least one sheriff candidate I’m not going to vote for. Secrecy instead of transparency after the fact? No.