The St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office recently held a brunch to honor its former chief deputies.   

Attending were chiefs from 1964 to present.  The event was hosted at Judge Edward Dufrense’s camp where a brief presentation was made concerning present operations of the sheriff’s office.  After the brunch, the group were issued retired chief deputy credentials and given a tour of the new sheriff’s office firearms range.

“These men have helped shaped law enforcement in St. Charles Parish for nearly half a century.  Their dedication to the citizens of this parish and the men and women of law enforcement have contributed to the successes we have been able to achieve and the quality of life here”, stated present Chief Joseph Cardella.

“I thoroughly enjoyed meeting with some of my ‘old compadres.’”  I think that we should meet more often to discuss what’s taking place in law enforcement today.  Thirty years ago, when I served as chief deputy, we hardly had equipment to fight crime.  The officers today have all the necessary tools to get the job done”, added Kermit Brown.

Herb Leray stated, “ Law enforcement has changed a lot over the years. For example we had only two people that had to patrol River Road and Highway 90.  It was tough back then because we had to rely on each other for back up.  We had to be prepared for anything that came up.  Many of the officers today have take home vehicles and equipment, we had to share things like this because of budget restraints.”

“The meeting was very informative.  It’s amazing how the role of law enforcement has changed since I served as chief deputy back in 1963.  Our personnel consisted of about 30 people compared to that of 400 plus employees today.  I am very satisfied with the way our sheriff’s office is running,” stated Charlie Oubre.

The chief criminal deputy is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the sheriff’s office.  He is first assistant to the sheriff and acts as such in his presence.

“All have distinguished themselves in their respective professional and private lives since serving as Chief.  I strive to maintain the integrity of the position and continue the legacy that these men have left.”  Concluded Chief Joseph Cardella.