MEET YOUR SHERIFF

Jack Laurie - Sheriff

Sheriff Jack Laurie began his Law Enforcement career over two decades ago as a patrol officer for the Atchison Police Department.

Sheriff Laurie was born and raised in Atchison County attending Martin East & West Grade Schools, Atchison Middle School, and spent his high school years at Maur Hill Prep (Maur Hill-Mount Academy). After high school, he attended Pittsburg State University, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Justice Studies while competing on the PSU Golf Team.

After college, Sheriff Laurie began his law enforcement career in August of 2001, graduating from the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center in January of 2002. He served as a patrol officer, K-9 Officer, and was a member of the Special Response Team.

In May of 2008, Sheriff Laurie accepted a position outside of law enforcement as a sales representative, for Northwest Pipe Company. Though he enjoyed his experiences in the private sector, Sheriff Laurie found himself picking up shifts as part-time officer and later accepting a full-time position in 2012. That same year, Sheriff Laurie was elected to his first term as the Atchison County Sheriff.  

Since taking office, Sheriff Laurie completed executive level management education at the 109th session of the National Sheriff's Institute, a program designed to provide "Effective Leadership for the Public Good in Public Safety, Community Relations, Criminal Justice System Policy, and Organization Effectiveness and Efficiency". He has earned a Public Manager Certification from the KU Public Management Center along with graduating from the Kanas Law Enforcement Leadership Academy's, "Command School".

In addition to his educational achievements, Sheriff Laurie has been recognized on local, state, and national levels. He was recognized as the "Officer of the Year" by the VFW Post 1175, honored as the Commencement Speaker for 293rd Basic Class of the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center, and was awarded the "Humane Law Enforcement Award" for his leadership in combating illegal animal abuse, from the Humane Society of the United States (HSUS).

Sheriff Laurie is grateful for his achievements but admits that they are only a result of having hardworking and dedicated employees. Other staff have also been recognized throughout his tenure. Four "Officer of the Year" awards from the VFW Post 1175, one award of "Officer of the Year" from the Kansas Narcotics Officers Association, and along with the sheriff, the undersheriff (former) was also awarded the "Humane Law Enforcement Award" for leadership in combating illegal animal abuse from the HSUS. 

The Atchison County Sheriff's Office has over 30 employees and Sheriff Laurie is very appreciative of their work. He recognizes that it is not the Sheriff himself, but indeed his employees who keep our community safe, inmates of the jail safe, and each other safe, day in and day out.

When away from his office, Sheriff Laurie enjoys spending time with his wife, Megan (Taliaferro) Laurie and two sons, Mason and Kade. Over the years, he has enjoyed dedicating a lot of his time to coaching and assisting with his children's football, basketball, and baseball teams. They also spend time hunting, fishing, and golfing.

Sheriff Laurie is honored to be your Sheriff and appreciates the opportunity to serve the citizens and Atchison County.