Sheriff's scholarship available

March 5 is the deadline for applications for the third annual Thomas A. Beilein Scholarship award for high school seniors residing in Niagara County who will seek a career in criminal justice/law enforcement.

Scholarship recipients must be enrolled in an accredited two or four-year college program in criminal justice/law enforcement located in New York state.

There will be three $1,000 scholarships available for the academic year beginning in the fall semester of 2012.

 "Former Niagara County Sheriff Thomas A. Beilein displayed impeccable work ethic and integrity throughout his entire 40-year career in law enforcement serving the people of Niagara County, said Niagara County Sheriff James R. Voutour. "He raised the level of professionalism at the Niagara County Sheriff's Office, which, in turn, improved public safety for county residents. It is easy to understand why the voters elected him four times."

Beilein is a decorated Vietnam War veteran who was a combat medic before beginning his career with the Niagara County Sheriff's Office in 1969. He was first elected sheriff in 1993, serving in that position until he became chairman of the New York State Commission of Correction.

The Thomas A. Beilein Scholarship award is funded through the Niagara County Law Enforcement Foundation Inc.

Applications are available from school counselors or visit www.niagarasheriff.com to download application materials. Call 438-3370 for further information.