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Brian Blatz is celebrating 5 years as a Peace Officer with Parkland County’s Enforcement Services team. We caught up with him recently to find out what the job is really like.

What interested you about becoming a peace officer?

Being a Peace Officer is great because I have always enjoyed chatting with people and being able to learn what makes them “tick”. I’m also a person who will stand up and say something when no one else will — so combining those two traits really suits the role.

 

 

What are some common misconceptions about peace officers?

People think all we do is write tickets… well, we do, but that’s not our only role! People think we are mean and want to enforce the laws to the fullest when actually, we are very approachable and willing to chat. I would much rather have a conversation on how to fix an issue than be heavy-handed and issue tickets.

What are some things you wish people knew about Peace Officers? 

We look to try and fix the problem, not just band-aid it. I do want people to know that, now more than ever, we are extremely busy and most of us are running 30 or more case files. My message to them is ‘we will address your problem, but we are just asking for some time.’

"The few interactions I have had with Officer Blatz have left a lasting positive impression. His commitment to his duties and his ability to connect with the community make him an outstanding peace officer."  - Parkland County Resident

What do you like best about your job?

The best thing about being a Peace Officer is being able to go into schools and interacting with the kids. Whether I am reading to the younger grades or presenting about safety issues in high school, the kids make it the best part of the day. They are engaged and always come up with the craziest questions that make me laugh, no matter how prepared I am.

It also sounds cliche but having the ability to help people on some of their worst days makes it all worthwhile.