From left, Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Deputy Rob Clark took Jamestown High School Senior Kacey Nutting on a ride-along to help him explore a career in law enforcement. This opportunity was arranged by Chautauqua County Sheriff James B. Quatrone. Submitted photo

As graduation approaches at Jamestown High School, Kacey Nutting is contemplating a future in law enforcement.

Nutting finds the idea of joining the police force quite appealing, deciding to pursue a career in forensics. His interest led him to spend a shift riding along in a marked Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office patrol car, where he was able to observe firsthand the activities and responsibilities of the county’s law enforcement officers during a typical day.

“My son is interested in a career in law enforcement, so I reached out to our sheriff, and he arranged a ride-along for him,” said Katricia Nutting, Kacey’s mother and a case manager at the United Christian Advocacy Networks City Mission.

Chautauqua County Sheriff James B. Quatrone facilitated an opportunity for Nutting to accompany Deputy Rob Clark during a ride along.

Nutting said Clark, “is a great guy, and I enjoyed the ride-along. I learned that the tickets issued are mostly to help people avoid speeding. Deputy Clark cares deeply about his work with people and animals. He sets a good example, and the ride-along was a valuable experience.”

While the ride along encountered an unforeseen setback that threatened to dampen young Nutting’s special day, fate had other plans. Clark had been called away to attend to an urgent situation, but in a fortunate turn of events, another devoted deputy from the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office came to the rescue.

“Deputy Clark was handling a call when Deputy Jason Beichner picked up my son and brought him to Deputy Clark,” said Katricia Nutting. “Our Sheriff’s Department exceeded expectations to ensure my son had a safe and enjoyable educational experience and a look at what it’s like to be a law enforcement officer.”