The Cherokee Sheriff’s Office has increased its pay for sworn positions by nearly 20 percent, making it one of the leading sheriff’s offices in the metro area for law enforcement pay.

The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners approved a 7 percent increase plus a flat $5,000 to POST-certified positions, making the salary scales more competitive in an increasingly competitive market. The starting salary for an uncertified deputy is $50,243 with excellent benefits, pension with a county match, paid uniforms and equipment, and programs for incentive pay.

“The Cherokee Sheriff’s Office is currently competing with every law enforcement agency in the state for qualified deputies. The commissioners’ decision to approve a 7 percent COLA and $5,000 increase in pay for deputies will not only help us attract new applicants to fill our 63 vacancies, it will also help us retain current deputies,” said Sheriff Frank Reynolds. “We are grateful to the commissioners and the citizens of Cherokee County for their continued support.”

This is the third year in a row the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners has acted to increase public safety salaries to assist in recruiting quality law enforcement officers to serve and protect the community.

“As a Board, we know public safety is the key to a great quality of life. We’re proud to have one of the finest Sheriff’s teams in the nation and thankful to them for keeping Cherokee the safest county in our region,” said Chairman Harry Johnston said. “We’re glad to be able to compensate them commensurately with their excellence.” Those interested in applying to join the Cherokee Sheriff’s Office should visit www.cherokeega-sheriff.org or email recruiter@cherokeega.com.