OHIO taught Franklin County Sheriff’s deputy invaluable lessons

As a deputy sheriff in the Franklin County Corrections Center, Ohio University graduate Makalia Jones is tasked with the care, custody and control of inmates, as well as responding to any incidents that may arise within the facility.

This is a lot of responsibility, but OHIO prepared Jones for her career in law enforcement through coursework, as well as participating with students, alumni and law enforcement professionals.

“Hearing others’ stories and experiences helped prepare me for anything I might encounter,” Jones said.

Jones graduated from Ohio University with an associate degree in applied studies in law enforcement technology in 2021 and began working for the Franklin County Corrections Center. She went on to graduate from the Franklin County Sherriff’s Office Academy and Ohio University this spring, earning her bachelor’s degree in criminal justice with a minor in communication studies.

As part of her on-the-job training, she earned Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) certification, which is designed to create a seamless link between law enforcement and emergency mental health services. CIT officers receive approximately 40 hours of training in psychiatric disorders, substance abuse issues, de-escalation techniques and legal issues related to mental health and substance abuse.

“I wanted to help others and belong to something greater than myself,” Jones said.

Jones chose Ohio University’s Lancaster campus because of its proximity to her hometown Canal Winchester. She enrolled in OHIO’s law enforcement technology and criminal justice programs to support her goal of launching a career in law enforcement.

Lisa Taylor, an associate professor of instruction, described Jones as diligent, hard-working and always ready for a challenge. “Makalia is goal-oriented, and it is evident that she goes after what she wants,” Taylor said. “I expect nothing but continued success from this young lady. It was a pleasure serving as her instructor, being part of her educational journey and watching her grow and mature."

Taylor and the law enforcement technology classes she taught made a big impact on Jones, who carries advice from Taylor  to this day.

“As Lisa Taylor once told me: ‘Get up, dress up and show up,’” Jones said.

Jones encourages other students who are interested in careers in law enforcement or criminal justice to build and leverage relationships, while staying focused on their goals and continuing to learn.