Henry County Sheriff Kent Oberkrom has announced his retirement which is to take place on December 31, 2024, after 28 years in office. Aaron Brown and Mike Sowers, candidates with strong law enforcement experience, are vying for the Sheriff’s position, and since they are both Republicans will know the result of the race after the August 6 Primary Election.
Both Brown and Sowers were asked for some background information and given a questionnaire about what their plans are if they are elected to the Sheriff’s position. That information is given below with Brown’s information first.
Brown is a life-long resident of Henry County. He was raised in Montrose, but moved to Clinton when he started his career. He began working at the Henry County Sheriff’s Office at age 15 in an internship called Explorers Post. He helped direct traffic at parades and was part of the Sheriff’s Posse assisting them with training such as search and rescue. He knew at that young age that law enforcement was his niche. After graduating from Montrose High School, he went to the University of Central Missouri and earned a degree in Criminal Justice, and a minor in Business Management with the goal of one day being a sheriff. He worked with the Henry County Sheriff’s Office from 2010 to 2015, working his way up to Sergeant. Then, he expanded his horizons by going to Johnson County, as a Corporal, and worked his way up to his present position as the Under Sheriff.
1): Why are you the best person to be Sheriff of Henry County?
My unique blend of 14 consecutive years of law enforcement experience in Sheriff’s Office work, combined with the nationally sought after experience gained from the FBI National Academy, positions me as the ideal candidate to be your next Henry County Sheriff. Having grown up in Henry County and remaining a lifelong resident, I bring a deeply personal commitment to our community. This background offers a rare perspective that aligns grassroots understanding with national standards. My dedication is rooted in a community-focused approach, driven by integrity and empathy. I am committed to serving every citizen of Henry County with the utmost respect, ensuring safety and justice for all.
(2): What do you plan to accomplish in your first 30 days? 90 days?
In the first 30 days, I plan to evaluate the current operations of the Sheriff’s Office, including an assessment of our policies and procedures to ensure they meet the highest standards our employees and community deserves. This will also involve a detailed review of our investigative processes to identify areas for enhancement, aiming to boost our success in solving crimes and protecting the community. Alongside this, we will establish open lines of communication with the community and review our training protocols to elevate officer readiness and community engagement. By 90 days, I aim to have implemented initial steps towards our strategic goals, such as strengthening our community policing efforts, enhancing our transparency, and building stronger partnerships with local organizations and groups.
(3): What kind of leadership will you bring to the Sheriff’s Office? My leadership style, tried and tested, is collaborative yet decisive. I believe in leading by example, encouraging a culture of respect, accountability, and continuous improvement. I am committed to empowering our staff to excel through ongoing training, support, and growth. This will make everyone feel valued and motivated to serve our community to the best of their abilities. This approach not only aims to enhance the well-being of our employees but directly correlates to improved services for the citizens of Henry County. By striving for organizational capacity and enhanced effectiveness, we support an environment where members have the autonomy to carry out tasks and achieve greater accomplishments. This also allows our team to be more proactive, creating a safe haven for citizens to live. Through this leadership style, we not only elevate the morale and productivity of our team but also significantly impact our community’s safety and quality of life, where proactivity and community engagement are at the forefront.
(4): What do you think is the number one thing that needs to be changed at the Sheriff’s Office and how would you change it? Our priority is to instill a culture of empathy, compassion, and understanding within the Sheriff’s Office, transforming our work environment and the way we provide services. By introducing these values into our daily operations and training, we aim to improve interactions with the community and improve the delivery of our services. Introducing programs for emotional intelligence and promoting open dialogue are steps towards this goal. A shift towards a more understanding and collaborative approach internally will naturally extend to how we engage with and serve the community.
(5): What steps will you take to ensure privacy and the rights of citizens are respected? Protecting the privacy and rights of our citizens is a daily responsibility in everything we do, and every decision made in office. These decisions will be made by respecting not only the God-given rights of individuals but also those preserved in our Missouri Constitution and the Constitution of the United States. I am committed to ensuring that our policies and practices are of a high standard and are met. This includes implementing training for all staff and introducing oversight mechanisms to ensure we are providing the best services.
(6): How do you plan to keep’s staff morale and retention in the Sheriff’s Office? To boost morale and retention, our approach combines career and professional development, competitive compensation, and an encouraging work environment. Leading by example and fostering a culture of respect, accountability, and continuous improvement, we aim to empower our staff through recognition, opportunities for advancement, and comprehensive support. This philosophy not only seeks to enhance our employees’ well-being but also directly improves services for the citizens of Henry County. Striving for organizational capacity and effectiveness, we enable our team with the autonomy to excel and to be proactive, thereby enhancing community safety and quality of life. Ultimately, this strategy is designed to uplift our staff’s morale, productivity, and empowering each member with a voice to make positive change.
(7): How will you approach budget cuts or financial constraints in the Department? If facing financial constraints or concerns, our approach will be strategic and transparent. We will prioritize essential services that may need decreased funding and explore efficiencies without compromising public safety. Working hand in hand with the County Clerk and County Commissioners to find solutions to budget cuts or constraints will be a key part of the strategy. We would also speak with the community and try to use grants and partnerships while navigating the budget challenges.
(8): What will you do to keep transparency at the Sheriff’s Department?
Transparency will be a cornerstone of my tenure. We plan to regularly publish information on our activities, decisions, and the state of public safety in Henry County. Communication with our community is key, and we will explore the best methods preferred by our communities. We aim for the public to understand how we come to decisions, why, and what constraints we face when arriving at conclusive decisions or conducting investigations. We will continue to attend board of alderman meetings, providing up-to-date information about activities related to the area.
(9): What strategies will you implement to tackle drug related crime?
To tackle drug-related crime, we will focus on a multi-pronged strategy that includes education, prevention, treatment, and enforcement. Having dedicated half of my 14-year law enforcement career to narcotics enforcement and interdiction, I understand deeply how drug-related issues affect every one of us and often serve as a link for many other crimes. In addition to partnering with prevention programs and targeting trafficking and distribution networks with area specialized units, we will also support initiatives like recovery court and programs that operate independently from our criminal justice system. These programs are vital for those who wish to turn their lives around on their own accord. My experience has taught me the importance of collaboration, as we will look into working with area drug task forces and federal partners. This multifaceted approach will also concentrate on local drug trends and tracing the source of the drugs, allowing us to concentrate on both the local trend and the source, efficiently and effectively.
(10): What strategies will you take to protect the vulnerable in Henry County?
Our approach includes our partnerships with social services, Care Connections, non-profits, and community organizations to provide support, especially for our most at-risk populations. A key part of our strategy will involve specialized training for employees to recognize and effectively respond to situations involving vulnerable individuals. Together, these efforts will help create a safer environment for all members of our community, with a special emphasis on those who are most in need of protection.
(11): How do you plan to address the increase of cyber-crime? Addressing cyber-crime requires specialized knowledge and technology. We will work to ensure our team has the necessary training and resources, work together with state and federal agencies, and educate the community on cyber safety practices to protect themselves and their families. Additionally, we will join forces with the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, a coalition of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies dedicated to investigating, prosecuting, and developing effective responses to internet crimes against children.
(12): What is your opinion on the use of force? The use of force must be cautious, transparent, and always the last resort. Our office will adhere strictly to a use-of-force policy that prioritizes de-escalation and respects the dignity and rights of all individuals, with accountability and training to ensure these principles are upheld. Our Use of Force policies will be regularly reviewed, and appropriate training will be provided to ensure that the rights of individuals are protected and upheld.
(13): What measures will you take to ensure officer accountability and conduct? We will evaluate or implement if needed, an accountability system that includes body cameras, regular training, performance reviews, and a clear, fair process for addressing misconduct. Public trust centers on our commitment to the highest standards of conduct at all times. To further this, multiple avenues will be available for the filing of grievances and compliments, ensuring that every concern and praise is heard and addressed through a transparent investigation process. Importantly, we will safeguard against any form of retaliation or retribution, ensuring that those who come forward can do so without fear, reinforcing our dedication to integrity and justice within the community.
(14): How will you engage with schools and educational institutions for safety and awareness programs? We plan to remain an advocate for school safety programs, continuing regular safety drills, and foster mentorship programs that build trust between students and law enforcement. Current school walkthroughs have proven beneficial for fostering positive contact between staff, students, and law enforcement. Additionally, a School Resource Deputy has been successfully assigned to the Windsor School District, suggesting that a broader implementation of a system could be reviewed, to include federal funding. We will continue to assist schools and their employees in conducting active school-based training and scenarios, helping to identify any flaws in school procedures and address security concerns. This hand-in-hand partnership will ensure that our commitment to creating a secure and positive educational environment for our children remains a priority.
(15): How will you balance law enforcement with community outreach and engagement? Balancing law enforcement with community engagement is about building and retaining relationships. Our approach will be to ensure our employees are visible, accessible, and actively involved in community events, programs, and organizations, fostering a mutual respect, and understanding that benefits our entire community. This commitment to bridging the gap between law enforcement and the community is something I have pursued faithfully throughout my law enforcement career. By continuing these efforts, I aim to strengthen the bond between the Sheriff’s Office and the people we serve, ensuring that we work together.
Mike Sowers comes from a legacy family line of military and first responders. He served in the Missouri Army National Guard Military Police Corps and has worked for the Crawford and Phelps County Sheriff’s Offices as well as the Rolla Police Department. He also had experience at The Federal Protective Service (part of Homeland Security) as a Protective Security Officer.
Sowers currently lives in Henry County and previously lived here in the late 1980s while in college and working with an internship at the Sheriff’s Office. During his internship he met the Sheriff and was hired full time to work for him in communication and at the jail. He was hired in late 2022 and early 2023 for a shared position between the Henry County Sheriff’s Office as a detective, and the Henry County Prosecutor’s Office as an Investigator. In January he began a full-time position as Investigator at the Prosecutor’s Office.
1): Why are you the best person to be Sheriff of Henry County? I believe that I am the best choice for the position of Sheriff because of my background in varied positions while serving in the Missouri Army National Guard, several sheriff’s departments, police departments, and the federal government. I’ve seen what works and what does not. And I’ve learned that one must be adaptable in all situations, thinking outside the box to find workable solutions to difficulties which frequently present themselves. I’ll take what I’ve learned and will apply those successful strategies here in Henry County. I am not naive. The challenges will be daunting. I cannot solve things all on my own. But I do know that I can facilitate and assemble a team of community leaders and citizens to help combat these issues. That’s how we will make the Henry County Sheriff’s Office better and make Henry County a safe place.
(2): What do you plan to accomplish in your first 30 days? 90 days?
If elected August 6, I will begin working diligently with the outgoing administration to make the transition smooth. In the 1st 30 days I will be examining the strengths of staff and seeking better ways to utilize those strengths for the betterment of the Sheriff’s Office. Then in 90 days, have those strategies in place. We are extremely fortunate here in Henry County with the team that Sheriff Oberkrom has built. And it is my intention to build on the foundation which has already been carefully laid.
(3): What kind of leadership will you bring to the Sheriff’s Office? A combination of coaching and transformational leadership styles. Again, I intend to promote, build, and develop talent from within, similar to building a successful sports team, through motivation, empowerment and bringing to light untapped potential. Focusing on personal and professional growth. Together, we will identify ineffective processes and transform these into a better working model.
(4): What do you think is the number one thing that needs to be changed at the Sheriff’s Office and how would you change it? No one ever starts a career in law enforcement expecting to become rich. But the staff needs to be able to make a living and support their family. It’s been my observation that deputies that leave the Sheriff’s Office top two reasons are: 1. salary. 2. short staffing. To attract and retain deputies, they need to be adequately paid for their services. Henry County needs to provide comparable pay matching our neighbors in adjoining counties and municipalities. As well as matching the salaries of the Clinton Police Department. This is my number 1 priority.
(5): What steps will you take to ensure privacy and the rights of citizens are respected? I will uphold and support the United States Constitution along with the laws of the State of Missouri. If a complaint is raised and received concerning a breach of trust, violation of rights or a broken law, we will investigate the complaint thoroughly and take the necessary steps to correct those violations, including prosecution if warranted.
(6): How do you plan to keep staff morale and retention in the Sheriff’s Office? Follow up to #3 and #4, Implementing an awards recognition policy where deputies will be acknowledged for exceptional acts, bravery, and other types of meritorious service. Providing them with medals of distinction, award letters and certificates. These would be awarded to our deputies at awards ceremonies and recognition dinners. Open to the public and media. Sometimes, we tend to focus on only the bad, but I would like to highlight some of the exceptional and heroic acts that our deputies do routinely and go unnoticed. From saving the life of a stranger or to going out of their way to assist someone who needs help and has nowhere to turn. I truly believe these are just a few of the things I can do to increase morale and retain our deputies.
(7): How will you approach budget cuts or financial constraints in the Department? Just like we all do in our families and in running a business, we will discuss and evaluate what and where we need to cut back on and trim. Continuing to be a good steward, we will investigate steps to offset those deficiencies and find ways to increase revenue to offset those cuts and constraints.
(8): What will you do to keep transparency at the Sheriff’s Department?
I plan on sending out daily “blotter” reports (activity reports) to our local media outlets and have an increased social media presence and influence to keep our public informed and engaged. As your Sheriff, I will also be available to answer questions, complaints, or concerns. All citizens will be welcome to visit the Sheriff’s Office in person, or place phone calls to the Office or by sending emails.
(9): What strategies will you implement to tackle drug related crime?
Better facilitation and effective collaboration between local and regional law enforcement agencies, especially the Clinton Police Department. Starting new groups to also assist, such as a Sheriff’s Citizen Patrol, Neighborhood Watch groups and expanding the Sheriff’ Office Reserve Deputy component. These groups can be utilized to detect and combat criminal activity. Many hands lighten the load and there will be more sets of eyes watching our communities. Working in the Prosecuting Attorney’s office, I better understand the challenges they face along with the challenges that face the court itself. As Sheriff, I will take steps to hasten law enforcement efforts by getting reports to the Prosecutor’s Office to help them prosecute the offenders in a timely fashion. The longer it takes to prosecute, victims continue to suffer and often experience fear and unnecessary anxiety. Over time, witnesses move and are harder to locate and are reluctant to come back and assist in the prosecution. And sometimes, witnesses unfortunately die. And as you can guess, this may cause the case to be dropped and not prosecuted.
(10) What strategies will you take to protect the vulnerable in Henry County?
Seniors in particular are a group at the top of the “vulnerable” list. And unfortunately, often overlooked. While at the Rolla Police Department, I developed a program called, Law Enforcement and Seniors Together (L.A.S.T.) A team was developed between local law enforcement, the local hospital and other healthcare institutions, county health department and other members of the 1st Responder community. Religious groups and civic groups were encouraged to be a part of the team as well. The purpose of the program was to identify the concerns of Seniors, inform and improve crime prevention and education, and by decreasing fear and anxiety, to decrease crime so as to improve Senior’s quality of life. Monthly meetings and activities took place to address crime trends targeting the elderly, training 1st responders on how to cope, assist and understand seniors with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease when encountering these folks on the street as lost or missing. Better recognizing the signs of Elder Abuse and how to effectively investigate and navigate around those types of investigations. This is but one example of how to protect the vulnerable here in Henry County. I will also continue to work with organizations that help and assist the mentally ill, folks who struggle with addictions and the physically and mentally challenged. Currently, I am an advisor/team member of the Henry County Recovery Court and have seen members graduate and lead successful and productive lives. I would like to get our deputies and other local law enforcement members to be involved here in the Special Olympics. In the past, I was an active supporter and volunteer and I saw how it enriched and benefited all involved.
(11): How do you plan to address the increase of cyber-crime? It is my understanding that this may be already in the works, and I would finish its implementation here in Henry County. I would sign a Memorandum of Understanding with the Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) to assist us in protecting Henry County children. ICAC (taken from their website) is a national network of 61 coordinated task forces, representing over 5,400 federal, state, and local law enforcement, dedicated to investigating, prosecuting, and developing effective responses to internet crimes against children. In our area, we are fortunate to have an ICAC unit which is based out of Cass County. In Henry County, I have been advised that ICAC receives 1-2 reports/tips every month from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). These reports/tips are of suspected child sexual exploitation and child pornography. There is a war against children. We must utilize every resource available to protect children and prosecute child predators to the fullest extent of the law.
(12): What is your opinion on the use of force? I will be evaluating the current use of force policy currently in place. Force is used when it becomes necessary in a self-defense situation, the protection of others and overcoming resistance to arrest. In all situations, the deputy should only use the amount of force necessary to effect an arrest and to protect themselves and others. And that force varies based on whatever situation presents. The overall goal here is to preserve the peace and protect the community. There are accepted guidelines for the use of force, but each incident must be looked at individually to properly assess the situation. Context matters. No two officers are the same nor will there ever be two situations being the same. It must be carefully evaluated each time.
(13): What measures will you take to ensure officer accountability and conduct? I will set forth a clear understanding of conduct and deputy accountability. And I assure you that it will be no less than the current administration’s standards.
(14): How will you engage with schools and educational institutions for safety and awareness programs? I have received advanced training as a School Resource Officer (SRO) from the National Association of School Resource Officers (NASRO). I was implemental in developing the 1st SRO program for the Rolla Police and The Rolla public schools. At the time of implementation, there were approximately 1,100 students in the high school, grades 10-12. I recognize the importance and advantages of SRO’s in our schools and it would be a goal to provide more SRO’s to all the schools in Henry County, along with bringing back the DARE program.
(15): How will you balance law enforcement with community outreach and engagement? I think I may have touched on the answers to this last question. I have seen what community policing, collaboration and community empowerment can do for communities. And I am the best candidate to make this happen. We cannot separate, isolate and pass blame onto others for the problems we face. We must take ownership and take responsibility and become proactive in finding solutions to the problems and effectively combat crime. It takes a community. A team. A family. A dedicated and focused Sheriff’s Office. Together and as your Sheriff, we can make Henry County better and safer. If you engage and partner, I will do my part as Sheriff to make this all happen.
