Behind the Badge: Hardin County Sheriff John Ward on Constitutional Duties, Career Paths, and Community Programs - Hardin County Sheriff's Office Spotlight - Hardin Local With HCG - Jan 9th, 2025

Sheriff John Ward joins us to break down what the Hardin County Sheriff's Office actually does beyond patrols and arrests. Discover the constitutional responsibilities most people don't know about, including the office's role in collecting $94 million in county taxes and providing courthouse security. Chapters 00:00:05 - Introduction 00:02:49 - Constitutional Sheriff Explained 00:07:32 - 2025 Statistics & Call Volume 00:11:25 - Tax Collection Role 00:13:09 - Mobile Tax Collection Program 00:20:45 - Therapy Dog & School Programs 00:27:23 - Deputy Training Requirements 00:30:16 - Kentucky's Unique Jail System 00:31:45 - Airport Drug Interdiction 00:34:08 - Patrol Operations & Agency Cooperation 00:38:44 - Becoming a Deputy 00:40:10 - Current Job Openings 00:43:46 - County Announcements & 20-20-20 Challenge 00:45:34 - Closing & Next Episode We cover 2025 statistics (over 50,000 calls for service), the innovative mobile tax collection program, school resource officers, and the new therapy dog program helping kids in our schools. Sheriff Ward also explains what it takes to become a deputy, current hiring opportunities, and how the office coordinates with other agencies including a special drug interdiction assignment at Louisville International Airport. Whether you're curious about local government, interested in a law enforcement career, or just want to understand the many services the sheriff's office provides to Hardin County residents, this conversation reveals the full scope of one of county government's most multifaceted departments. Hosted by Phil Taul with Hardin County Communications Officer Brian Walker on Jan 9th, 2026. Join us February 6th for our next episode with Hardin County Government.