ThisWeek CW 08/16/2012
After almost a decade as the Fairfield County Sheriff’s Office commander in Canal Winchester, Sgt. K.C. Kern is passing the torch to Sgt. Jared Collins. The switch will take effect Aug. 24.
Kern, a 23-year veteran, went to work in what was then a village in March 2003 after Canal Winchester opted to contract for policing services from Fairfield County instead of Franklin County.
“There had been some cuts leading to the decision, and we were a little worried at first, but this proved to be a quality move,” city Law Director Gene Hollins said.
“It was a hard decision to leave,” Kern said. “I was asked to become the commander of the detective bureau. I’ll still be a sergeant, so it’s a lateral move, but I’m interested in getting back into doing more investigative type of work and this position is more administrative now.”
According to Kern, one of his more memorable, and less administrative, moments during his time in Canal Winchester was his apprehension of a bank robber.
“We’ve had some major incidents that our office has taken care of and solved, and as far as law enforcement issues, well, they come and go,” Kern said. “My best memories of my time here have been the camaraderie shared between the city employees and our office.”
Council member Bobbi Mershon and others agreed.
“While we’re glad to see Sgt. Collins taking over, we’re exceptionally sad to see K.C. go,” Mershon said.
Collins will work side by side with Kern until Aug. 24.
“Sgt. Collins will continue to do the same tasks that I’ve done in the past. He has a lot of experience and will do a good job,” Kern said. “We’re going to make the transition over the next couple of weeks; he’s coming in from being the day shift duty officer.”
“I’ve really enjoyed the small-town atmosphere of Canal Winchester,” he added. “It’s just been a pleasurable time working here with the city and residents. They’ve all been very accommodating.”