A new sheriff in town Published Feb. 14, 2014 By Senior Airman Jackson Hurd 162nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs Tucson, Ariz. -- Former high school teacher and current Air Guard member Master Sgt. Wendell Jones, a Weapons Safety NCO, recently graduated from the Pima County Sheriff's Department Academy Jan. 24. As one of the newer deputies in Pima County, Jones has dedicated himself to serve the people in the community of Tucson. After teaching Interactive Digital Media and Graphic Design for several years at Rincon High School, Jones found an opportunity to join the Sheriff's Department and quickly made a commitment to do so. With a positive attitude, Jones completed the physical and mental stresses of the courses at age 41. "If there is anything you want to do, don't let your age or the thought of not knowing if you will make it be a stumbling block for you," said Jones. "Make up your mind that you want to do something and go do it." With over 900 applicants and only 30 openings for a position, Jones completed what only a small percentage of applicants could. Family and friends of Jones witnessed his achievement at his graduation. "I was very excited to see him graduate," said Chief Master Sgt. Brian Karas, Ground Safety Manager at the 162nd Fighter Wing. "He is one of the smartest guys we have here in the Safety Office and it was great to see his accomplishment." Though Jones has yet to complete his 12 weeks of field training before becoming a self-sufficient deputy of Pima County, he is motivated to complete the process. "Just remember that it's all temporary," said Jones. "The award and feeling is much greater than the turmoil you went through to get here." Jones hopes to help people in the community on a day-to-day basis, which is why he decided to become part of the sheriff's department.