Geauga County Sheriff Hosts Trunk or Treat, VFW K9 Fundraiser, Seeks Dispatchers

Related: Children Struck at Bus Stop, Amish Family Attacked, Ambulance Stolen in Geauga County

Community Engagement

VFW K9 Fundraiser Raises Over $50,000

The VFW presented Sheriff Scott Hildenbrand with a check from the recent K9 fundraiser, which raised over $50,000 to support the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office K9 program. The event was a tremendous success thanks to incredible community support.

Sheriff Hildenbrand extended special thanks to Matt Emrick and the team at Junction for their outstanding contributions and continued support of the K9 unit. The K9 program operates entirely on donations from citizens and businesses throughout the county.

Annual Trunk or Treat Event Set for October 22

The Geauga County Sheriff’s Office is preparing for its annual Trunk or Treat event scheduled for October 22. The department is currently accepting candy donations to ensure a successful community celebration.

Donations can be dropped off from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Sheriff’s Office at 12450 Merritt Road in Munson Township. Those unable to donate during regular business hours can call 440-279-2070 to arrange alternative drop-off times.

The Trunk or Treat event has become a popular tradition in Geauga County, providing a safe environment for families to celebrate Halloween while building positive relationships between law enforcement and community members.

Drug Take Back Day Scheduled for October 25

The Geauga County Sheriff’s Office will host Drug Take Back Day on Saturday, October 25, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Sheriff’s Office. This event provides a safe, convenient and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs while educating the community about the potential for abuse of medications.

Halloween Night Out Fundraiser Benefits Sheriff’s LOSS Team

The Geauga County Sheriff’s LOSS Team will hold its Annual Halloween Night Out Fundraiser, with all proceeds supporting the team’s critical work. The LOSS Team provides 24/7 support to individuals and families affected by sudden or traumatic events, working alongside first responders to offer comfort, resources and hope during crises ranging from unexpected deaths to community-wide incidents.

Funds raised will support volunteer training, response supplies and outreach programs throughout Geauga County. The event promises a “spooky-fun night of community, costumes, and giving back.” Tickets are available at friendsgeaugalossteam.org.

Department Operations

Sheriff’s Office Leads County in Public Safety

The Geauga County Sheriff’s Office, under the leadership of Sheriff Scott A. Hildenbrand, continues to demonstrate strong fiscal management and community partnership. The department operates a state-of-the-art 182-bed jail facility and serves as the dispatch center for eleven law enforcement agencies and thirteen fire and rescue companies throughout the county.

The dispatch center handles nearly 8,000 incoming phone calls per month, coordinating emergency responses across Geauga County’s rural and urban areas. As the county’s largest law enforcement agency, the Sheriff’s Office provides critical services including sex offender registration, concealed carry permits, and court security.

Under Sheriff Hildenbrand’s leadership, the department has achieved significant financial success, bringing in more than $300,000 annually in grant money and generating over $15 million since the jail opened through renting space to other agencies. The Sheriff has also shared in purchasing two drones for safety forces and acquired a full-body scanner for the jail at no cost to taxpayers.

Employment Opportunities

Now Hiring: Full-Time Dispatchers

The Geauga County Sheriff’s Office is actively recruiting full-time dispatchers to join their dedicated team of public safety professionals. The department seeks dependable individuals who can remain calm under pressure and are committed to serving Geauga County residents.

Position Details:

• Starting Pay: $23.76 per hour
• Schedule: Must be available to work weekends and holidays
• Benefits Include:
  • Ohio Public Employees Retirement System (OPERS)
  • Paid vacation and sick leave
  • Paid holidays

Dispatchers play a vital role in public safety by receiving emergency and non-emergency calls, dispatching appropriate personnel, and maintaining clear communication with law enforcement and first responders. With the dispatch center handling thousands of calls monthly for multiple agencies, these positions are critical to maintaining public safety across Geauga County.

Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through the Geauga County Sheriff’s Office website or contact the department directly for application information.