By Mary Drier
Staff Writer
TUSCOLA COUNTY — There is a new sheriff’s deputy protecting and serving Tuscola County residents.
Jordan Alexander, 23, was hired by Sheriff Lee Teschendorf Nov. 23, 2013, as a road patrol deputy.
“She is the first female deputy to work the road full time,” said Undersheriff Glen Skrent. “Penny Turner had been certified to work patrol but chose instead to go into the jail and retired as lieutenant there as jail administrator.”
Alexander graduated from Carsonville-Port Sanilac High School in 2008. She attended Saginaw Valley State University where she received a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice. In the winter of 2013, she attended the Delta College Police Academy and graduated as the top academic recruit.
“Jordan replaces a deputy who resigned,” noted Skrent.
One of the biggest challenged she has faced so far is learning to drive a police cruiser.
“I’ve always driven front-wheel drive vehicles,” said Alexander. “They vehicles we have here are all rear-wheel drive. It takes some getting use to the difference.”
Alexander is often asked about her career choice.
“I know it’s a cliché, but I really do enjoy helping people,” she said. “I enjoy the work. It’s not the same every day.”
As for being the first female deputy in the department, Alexander and her superiors view it as a plus.
“In some situations, it’s easier for a women to open up and talk to another woman,” she said.
When not patrolling the county roads, Alexander enjoys sports and hunting. She plays softball and golfs. She hunts both turkey, deer, and coyotes during gun and archery season.
Mary Drier is a staff writer for the Tuscola County Advertiser. She can be reached at drier@tcadvertiser.com.