The Sheriff's Office helps support several local programs. Here is an overview of some of those programs and services.

Community Chaplain Response Team

The Community Chaplain Response Team operates for all of Harvey County. It helps with emotional support for first responders and training opportunities for volunteers and chaplains. Find out more about the Chaplain Response Team on its Facebook page

Concealed Carry

The Kansas Personal and Family Protection Act - colloquially known as concealed carry - became law July 1, 2006. Concealed carry allows an individual to carry a concealed firearm in public. 

Concealed carry handgun license applicants are required to complete an application form. A $20 fee should be made payable to the Sheriff of Harvey County by check or money order. A photo must be attached to the application. Applicants must also be fingerprinted, a service provided at the Harvey County Detention Center. Additionally, applicants must also complete an eight-hour concealed carry course to receive a certificate of completion. 


To apply, bring the application, certificate of completion, fingerprint card and your driver's license to the sheriff's office. Processing is done Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Friday between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. There is generally a 45-90 day waiting period before the attorney general's office will contact an applicant with additional information on the application process.

Concealed carry handgun licenses are effective for a four-year period. For information on renewing a concealed carry license, click here

Explorers Program

This program was the creation of deputy Kurt Ford. Ford was killed in the line of duty, but the program's birth continued in his memory as Explorer Post 918 - Ford's retired badge number. The group learns about law enforcement, including ride-alongs with deputies, learning from emergency dispatchers and traffic control during the Harvey County Free Fair.

Sheriff's Reserves

One of our most valued volunteer programs is the sheriff's reserves. This unit has the same duties and functions of a deputy, but does so on a volunteer basis. 

The sheriff's office is continually looking to add to its reserve corps. Prospective reserves must be 21 years old. Reserves go through the same rigorous interviewing process as any deputy, and should they be accepted into the program, hold the same authority as deputies.

Some responsibilities of the reserves include assisting with coverage during busy periods and helping out during the Harvey County Free Fair. 

Mark Scheffler is the captain of the reserves.