BY ANNIE HOLLER
MOUNTAIN CITIZEN
WILLIAMSON, W.Va. — The Mingo County Sheriff’s Department will begin testing applicants next month as it prepares for several anticipated retirements and future openings, Sheriff Joe Smith announced.
Physical ability exams will take place March 7 and March 11 at the Southern West Virginia Community College Armory Building, followed by a written test March 13 for those who qualify.
“We don’t have any immediate openings at this time, but I have several guys that qualify to retire in the next year or two,” Smith said. “I always like to be prepared and have a list of qualified applicants to choose from. Our department takes pride in the caliber of officers that serve. We want to continue this tradition of excellence in the future.”
According to Smith, applications are available in the sheriff’s office on the first floor of the Mingo County Courthouse, Monday through Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.
Applicants should bring their completed applications with them to the physical ability examination. The exams will take place on two dates: Saturday, March 7 at 9 a.m. and Wednesday, March 11 at 5 p.m., both at the Southern West Virginia Community College Armory Building.
Applicants must perform 18 pushups and 28 situps in one minute and complete a 1.5-mile run in 14 minutes, 36 seconds or less.
“Applicants have a history of looking at these numbers and thinking it’s easy,” Chief Deputy Allen Mounts said. “And it is easy if you train.”
Mounts explained that the requirements are entry-level standards, not peak physical fitness expectations.
“Many applicants simply show up unprepared and are surprised that they can’t meet these simple standards,” he said. “If you start training now, you shouldn’t have any problems.”
Those who successfully complete the physical exam must then pass a written exam, which will be on Friday, March 13 at 10 a.m. at the Armory.
Starting pay for a Mingo County deputy is around $40,000 per year, with an increase to $43,000 upon completion of the police academy. Deputies also receive a benefit package that includes PEIA insurance, a four-day, 10-hour workweek, paid holidays and vacation, necessary equipment, and a take-home cruiser.
Applicants must possess a high school diploma, be a U.S. citizen, pass a background check, and be over the age of 18.
For additional information, contact Chief Mounts at 304-235-0300.