The Hancock Sheriff Reserve Deputy Division is comprised of our community members who volunteer their time to fulfill many of the roles handled by full-time sworn Deputies.  Reserve Deputies work alongside the full-time deputies in every aspect of day to day operations.

Reserve Deputies are generally not content to play a passive role in life. Instead, they continue to devote more and more of their time and talents to Hancock County.

Because our Reserve Deputies often live in Hancock County, victims and suspects may be their friends and neighbors.  This familiarity allows them to police in a more personal way, checking on women in troubled relationships, and offering encouragement to people trying to get clean. But sometimes while on duty, he/she must write tickets or arrest people he/she knows and likes.

Reservists are held to the same standards as their full-time counterparts.  Although they can choose their hours, they are required to stay active – usually by working a minimum of two shifts per month – and must complete the Mississippi Law Enforcement Standards and Training.  Most of the Hancock Reservists work 20 to 30 hours per week in addition to their day jobs, and this work would not be possible without the support and encouragement of their families.

Prospective Reservists go through a rigorous selection process, usually at their own expense.  Those who successfully pass a background check then qualify for a 20 week academy training and post-graduation field training.

In the long run, the Reserve Deputies believe the value of their work adds to the community which makes the effort worthwhile.