Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Hosts Sixth Annual Alabama Sheriffs Foundation Conference
Law enforcement leaders from across Alabama gather in Leesburg for training, legal updates and professional networking

T.L. Sullivan | The Weekly Ledger News | Local News | Monday, October 12, 2026
LEESBURG, Ala. — Sheriff Jeff Shaver and the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office recently welcomed law enforcement leaders from across the state for the sixth annual Alabama Sheriffs Foundation Networking and Education Conference, held at the department’s Training Center in Leesburg.

According to the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, sheriffs and members of their command staffs traveled from throughout Alabama to participate in the annual gathering, which focused on professional development, legal updates and strengthening relationships among law enforcement agencies.

The conference provided an opportunity for law enforcement leaders to exchange information, discuss challenges facing their departments and gain valuable insight into issues affecting public safety and law enforcement operations.

Among the featured presenters was Deputy District Attorney Brady Burns, who provided attendees with updates on new laws going into effect and discussed legal matters relevant to law enforcement personnel.

Retired Cattaraugus County, New York, Sheriff Timothy Whitcomb also addressed conference participants, focusing on post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the emotional and psychological challenges law enforcement officers may encounter throughout their careers.
Whitcomb’s presentation highlighted an important issue within the law enforcement profession, where officers routinely face stressful and potentially traumatic situations while carrying out their duties.

Katherine Robertson, chief counsel for the Alabama Attorney General’s Office, was also among the conference speakers, providing attendees with additional legal perspectives.
The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office noted that the county has had the opportunity to host the statewide conference for six consecutive years, bringing together law enforcement professionals from departments throughout Alabama.
Beyond the educational sessions, the annual event also serves as an opportunity for sheriffs and their command staffs to build professional relationships, share experiences and discuss common challenges facing law enforcement agencies.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, these connections play an important role in strengthening cooperation among departments and ultimately helping law enforcement agencies better serve the communities they protect.
The conference marks another year of Cherokee County serving as a gathering place for law enforcement leadership, continued education and professional collaboration across Alabama.
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Photos courtesy of: Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office




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