Taft names Union County Sheriff to head Homeland Security efforts

Gongwer News Service - Last week, Governor Bob Taft announced that he has appointed Union County Sheriff John Overly to head up the state's homeland security efforts in the Department of Public Safety.

The sheriff, who is expected to join the department in June, will direct operational activities for the State of Ohio Security Task Force and the State Building Security Review Committee. He will also advise DPS Director
Kenneth Morckel on program development, analysis and policies and procedures
related to homeland security.

"Sheriff Overly brings a wealth of experience in law enforcement and
community relations to help Ohio strengthen our defenses and preparedness," Mr. Taft said in a statement announcing the appointment. "He will be a great addition to the Department of Public Safety as we continue our work in
ensuring the citizens of Ohio are safe."

Director Morckel (former head of the Ohio Highway Patrol) said the sheriff has vast experience in working with first responders and also led the implementation of Union County's MARCS project.

OFCC PAC Commentary:
Since the Buckeye State Sheriff's Association represents a large group of law enforcement officials who support concealed carry reform, perhaps Sheriff Overly will be able to enlighten his new anti-self-defense bosses on the merits of this legislation, and the benefits it will provide to Homeland Security efforts.