Beilein scholarship

Niagara County Sheriff James R. Voutour has announced that applications are now available for the third annual Thomas A. Beilein Scholarship award, intended 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 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 Voutour. "This was never more apparent than during the over 14 and one-half years he was the chief law enforcement officer in Niagara County. He raised the level of professionalism at the Niagara County for county residents. It is easy to understand why the voters elected him four times.

"Tom Beilein has always expressed great faith in the young men and women of Niagara County to be the next wave of law enforcers. We can honor his accomplishments and bolster his belief in the future by assisting those who will assume protect its citizens. It is with great personal and professional pleasure that I announce the Thomas A. Beilein Scholarship award because it emphasizes the outstanding work of my predecessor and mentor, but, more importantly, contributes to enhancing the quality of life for the law abiding men, women and children of Niagara County."

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. After advancing through the ranks, he was elected Niagara County sheriff in 1993 and re-elected in 1997, 2001 and 2005. He vacated the office on July 25, 2008, after being nominated by the governor to be the chairman of the New York State Commission of Correction. Unanimously confirmed by the State Senate, Beilein holds the distinction of being the only former sheriff in the history of the commission to serve as chair.

The scholarship award is funded through the Niagara County Law Enforcement Foundation Inc. High school seniors residing in Niagara County can obtain an application from their school counselor. Deadline for applications is March 5.

Call the Niagara County Sheriff's Office at 716-438-3370 for further information or visit www.niagarasheriff.com to download application materials.