MEET OUR FIRST RESPONDERS: Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Deputy Gary Sims

Published 11:41 am Wednesday, April 2, 2025

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ND: What are your job title and areas of responsibility?

SIMS: Patrol Lieutenant, I supervise and direct the work of patrol Deputies, ensuring efficient deployment and response to calls for service.

 

ND: How did you come to work in law enforcement?

SIMS: Law enforcement has always intrigued me. In 2010, Chief Kenneth Hedrick gave me my first shot at being a police officer in Ferriday. Working in Ferriday, I gained knowledge quickly as we were faced with many challenges daily.

 

ND: What do you enjoy most about your work?

SIMS: The most enjoyment comes from interacting with people from all walks of life. I’ve been fortunate to meet people from all over the country. And have made long-lasting relationships.

 

ND: What are the most challenging aspects of your job?

SIMS: The most challenging aspects, at times, can be the quick transition as the call comes. For example, we can go from consoling a missing child to a homicide. Being an officer, one must be prepared to deal with any call and reserve the right temperament.

 

ND: What skills are important for the work you do?

SIMS: Communication skills are a must. Never allowing compassion fatigue to take over, as we interact with people in their worst times.

 

ND: What do you wish more people knew about law enforcement officers and your work in the community?

SIMS: The sacrifice made on a daily basis. This job requires us to be away from our family. All jobs have their inherent risks but we look risks in the face every day we put on this uniform.

 

ND: What would you say to someone else considering this career path?

SIMS: I would say go for it. This can be the most rewarding job in the world. Every day, we have an opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life, help those in need and be a voice for the voiceless.

 

ND: What do you like to do when you’re not working? Do you have a hobby or activity people would be surprised to learn about?

SIMS: When I’m not working, you’ll normally find me out on a lake fishing.