Sheriff Kelly Rowe announced today the successful hiring of 12 new staff members at the Lubbock County Detention Center, marking a major milestone: the jail is now fully staffed. Since the pandemic began in 2020, staffing shortages have plagued county jails across Texas. Rowe praised both the recruitment team and new administrators for their hard work in reaching this achievement.

Cpl.Manthei LSO
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Two More Deputies

In a significant move to strengthen LCSO operations, Sheriff Rowe also ceremonially deputized two veteran jailers who recently graduated from the Basic Peace Officer Course through the South Plains Association of Governments. These officers now carry the same licensure and authority as full-fledged Peace Officers and may transfer to the Law Enforcement division in the future—opening new career pathways within the sheriff’s office.

What Texas Sheriff’s Deputies Do

In the Lone Star State, sheriffs are elected peace officers with county-wide authority—you’ll find them patrolling rural roads, serving warrants, and responding to emergencies in both unincorporated and incorporated areas.

READ MORE: Lubbock Police Offer Safety Tips as Crime Rises with Warmer Weather

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Their Duties

  • Enforcing state and local laws, including misdemeanor and felony offenses

  • Patrolling highways and county roads outside city limits

  • Operating the county jail and overseeing inmate management

  • Serving court papers, warrants, subpoenas, and providing courthouse security

  • Launching criminal investigations and working with other law enforcement agencies

READ MORE: Lubbock Police Give Tips on how to Minimize Vehicle Burglaries

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Why This Matters for Lubbock

With the jail at full staff, response times can improve, staffing shortages ease, and deputies can better support community safety. Deputized jailers also add flexibility, enabling seamless movement between detention and patrol roles. As Texas law allows sheriffs to appoint deputies or even build a county police force when staffing permits, Lubbock County is well-positioned to adapt and expand its public safety capabilities.

A Message from Sheriff Rowe via Facebook

The people of Lubbock County deserve dependable, professional law enforcement. With today's promotions and hires, we’ve reinforced our team and improved our ability to serve and protect.

The full staffing means stronger leadership, tighter patrol coverage, and enhanced services—keeping Lubbock safer today and tomorrow.

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Gallery Credit: Landon King

Arrington Welcomes Ag Secretary Brooke Rollins to West Texas

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Gallery Credit: Landon King