ROD LAUREYS FOR SHERIFF 2026

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Author: Prepared by Benjamin Coyle, Campaign Manager 

Date: Updated - September 2026

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Introduction

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Rod Laureys is a Marine veteran, former South Bend police officer, ATF Task Force officer, firearms instructor, and lifelong defender of public safety. His campaign for Sheriff is built on restoring accountability, protecting communities, and supporting those who serve on the front lines. This platform outlines Rod's vision, with reforms scheduled to begin in Fiscal Year 2027 following the election. 

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Public Safety & Crime Reduction

• Launch a Fiscal Year 2027 initiative to expand patrol coverage in both rural and urban areas, ensuring visible law enforcement presence. 
• Strengthen partnerships with federal agencies (DEA, ATF, FBI) to combat drug trafficking and gang activity. 
• Implement advanced officer training programs beginning FY 2027, focused on de-escalation, active shooter response, and rural policing. 

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Jail Operations & Ministry Access 

• Restore full access for jail chaplains and faith-based ministry programs starting in Fiscal Year 2027, ensuring inmates receive spiritual support. Conduct a staffing review in 2027 to reduce excess supervisors and place more Correctional Officers back on the floor. 
•  Invest in CO training and retention incentives, effective FY 2027, to address shortages and safety concerns. 

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Fiscal Responsibility & Budget 

• Beginning with the Fiscal Year 2027 budget, prioritize merit-based staffing rather than political appointments. 
•  Redirect resources from unnecessary administrative roles to frontline deputies and correctional staff. 
• Establish an annual audit process in FY 2027 to ensure taxpayer dollars are spent efficiently on core law enforcement priorities. 

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Community & Youth Engagement 

• Launch FY 2027 community outreach partnerships with schools, sports programs, and youth organizations to help end the school-to-prison pipeline. *Expand Sheriff's Office-sponsored youth programs beginning summer 2027. 
• Host quarterly town halls across St. Joseph County to strengthen communication and accountability. 

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Officer Support & Training 

• Starting FY 2027, provide deputies and COs with advanced tactical training, mental health support, and equipment upgrades. 
• Expand firearms and defensive tactics training programs, using Rod's expertise as a certified firearms instructor. 
•  Build a "Sheriff's Advisory Group" of deputies to ensure policies are shaped by those serving on the front lines. 

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Closing Statement 

Rod Laureys' platform is rooted in service, integrity, and results. 

Beginning in Fiscal Year 2027, Rod will restore accountability, protect our communities, and back the brave men and women who wear the badge. His experience as a Marine, ATF officer, and police veteran makes him uniquely qualified to lead St. Joseph County into a safer future.