Priorities
The safety and security of residents has been Byron’s top priority throughout his 30-year career in law enforcement. He has a proven track record of using problem-oriented policing that identifies and addresses the root causes of criminal activity. As the world of law enforcement evolves, Byron keeps his department at the forefront by seeking out innovative strategies, and implementing the latest training and technology for his officers.
With the increasing number of mental health-related calls, it’s more important than ever to equip our law enforcement officers with training on crisis intervention and de-escalation techniques. Byron helped create the mental health co-responder program for his own department and believes in expanding its role with the sheriff’s office. He will also work with the Johnson County Mental Health Department to improve mental health support in our jails.
Keeping former inmates out of jail increases public safety and saves taxpayer money. Providing job training, educational opportunities, and counseling for inmates equips them with skills needed for a successful reentry into society and decreases the likelihood of reoffending.
As chief of police, Byron has strong partnerships with community groups and service providers across Johnson County. As sheriff, he will connect people in crisis, such as those struggling with mental health or addiction, with vital resources before they enter the criminal justice system. This approach increases public safety by allowing law enforcement to focus its resources on more serious criminal activity.
Byron Roberson has built a police department that takes a collaborative approach to public safety and values diversity of thought to address complex issues. He has strong partnerships with community groups across Johnson County and believes in the importance of building trust between the community and law enforcement.
Regularly sharing information such as crime data, police activities, and budget details with the public improves trust in law enforcement. By being open about how decisions are made and actions are taken, police can build trust and ensure accountability. As Police Chief, Byron has done all of this while actively engaging the community and maintaining clear channels of communication with the public.
After rising through the ranks of the police department, Byron Roberson believes you’re only as good as the officer next to you. That’s why he believes in fostering a culture of professional development within the sheriff's office. As law enforcement evolves, Byron actively participates in and mandates cutting-edge professional development opportunities for his staff such as the FBI Leadership Academy, and Northwestern University’s School of Police Staff Command. These programs are essential to prepare officers to think strategically and find innovative solutions to the difficult issues they face today and tomorrow.