Jeff Rhinerson has made history in US law enforcement as he was sworn in as the newest member of the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office court security team, becoming the first person with Down Syndrome to take up such a role.
In a step forward for inclusion, Rhinerson is now part of the Judicial Security Unit at the Morton Holbrook Judicial Center in Owensboro, Kentucky. As a court security assistant, his role will involve supporting court security officers to maintain safety at the Judicial Center.
Rhinerson will also have customer service responsibilities, including directing visitors to where they need to go and providing information to those who require it.
Sherrif Brad Youngman has welcomed Rhinerson to the team. He told the Owensboro Times that Rhinerson has a passion for helping people and has always been interested in law enforcement.
Local nonprofit agency Employment Opportunities worked with the Sheriff’s office and Rhinerson to find him a role that suited his skills and interests.
While many people with Down Syndrome want to work, they can find it hard to come by. Research in 2015 found that 57% adults with Down Syndrome in the US had some form of paid employment, but only 3% of those were in full-time roles. They were also often in jobs that underutilise their skills, the research found. Hopefully Jeff can blaze a trail for others to follow and fulfil their potential.
