DeSoto Parish Sheriff Jayson Richardson recently met with students and community leaders, sharing messages about leadership while also providing updates on several projects underway in the parish.
On Friday, Sept. 11, Richardson attended the Mansfield High School Jobs for America’s Graduates Installation Ceremony at the DeSoto Parish School Board, where JAG student officers and members were recognized.
Jobs for America’s Graduates is a national nonprofit organization focused on helping students develop leadership and career skills while preparing them for graduation and future success in education, employment and life. Richardson spoke to the students during the ceremony and encouraged them as they continue developing into future community leaders.
Richardson also addressed local business and government leaders during the Chamber of Commerce’s monthly meeting Tuesday, Sept. 15.
During the meeting, the sheriff provided an update on construction of the new DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office and Detention Facility. According to DPSO, construction continues to move forward, with both projects remaining on track toward their previously anticipated completion timelines.
Richardson also discussed plans for a new Youth Shooting Sports Complex, which is now scheduled to be constructed just south of the existing DeSoto Parish Sheriff Training Center on Sprocket Lane in Grand Cane.
The proposed facility is intended to provide DeSoto Parish students with a dedicated location for firearms safety education and shooting sports programs. DPSO said State Sen. Thomas Pressly helped secure state appropriation funding for the project.
The Sheriff’s Office pointed to the success of local students in shooting sports, noting that competitors from the parish regularly earn trophies and honors at state and national competitions. The proposed complex is also expected to provide a facility for area hunters following the closure of a range previously used in the area.
DPSO said the project is part of Richardson’s broader effort to invest in opportunities for young people while expanding resources available to the community.
The Sheriff’s Office noted that images released of the proposed Youth Shooting Sports Complex are conceptual renderings only.
The final design and features could change as planning continues and officials determine how the facility can best serve DeSoto Parish and its shooting sports programs.