Benefits & Compensation

Overview

The DeSoto County Sheriff's Office offers a comprehensive, career-focused benefits package designed to support employees and their families. This includes immediate healthcare access, long-term financial security, and structured career development opportunities.

Healthcare Benefits

Medical Coverage

Coverage begins Day 1 of employment
Low monthly premiums with significant County contribution
100% covered preventive care (annual wellness visits, screenings)
Freedom to choose providers (no restrictive network limitations)
Preferred hospital system for reduced out-of-pocket costs

Telemedicine

24/7/365 access to licensed physicians
Ideal for shift-based personnel
Available via phone, app, or online

Prescription Coverage

Retail and mail-order options
$0-cost options for many long-term medications

Dental & Vision

Dental

Preventive care often covered at 100%
Coverage for basic and major procedures
Orthodontic benefits available for dependents

Vision

Annual exams with minimal copay
Coverage for glasses or contact lenses
Low-cost plans for individuals and families

Income Protection & Insurance

Life & AD&D Insurance

$50,000 life insurance provided at no cost
Additional dependent coverage included
Optional expanded coverage available

Disability Coverage

Short-Term Disability provided at no cost
Income protection for non-work-related injury or illness
Optional Long-Term Disability available

Supplemental Insurance

Accident, critical illness, cancer, and hospitalization plans
Paid directly to the employee

Retirement & Financial Security

PERS Retirement System

State-backed defined benefit pension
Employee contribution: 9%
Employer contribution: 18%+
Hybrid model for new hires (pension + investment account)

Deferred Compensation (457 Plan)

Optional pre-tax retirement savings
Additional long-term financial planning tool

Leave & Work-Life Balance

Paid Parental Leave

Supports employees during birth or adoption of a child
Can be coordinated with FMLA for extended leave
Ensures financial stability during critical family transitions

Vacation & Sick Leave

Accrued paid time off
Supports recovery, family needs, and long-term retention

Mental Health & Support Services

Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Confidential counseling for employees and household members
Available 24/7/365
Covers stress, financial concerns, family issues, and more

Health & Wellness Incentives

Rowing Fitness Program

A voluntary program, supported by Sheriff Tuggle and the DeSoto County Board of Supervisors, that pays employees for meeting established physical fitness benchmarks. Employees complete a 2,000-meter row twice a year — in April and October — scored against standards set by age and gender.

100% of standard — $1,250
90–99% — $937.50
80–89% — $625
70–79% — $312.50

Each test is scored on its own, so there are two chances to earn an incentive every year — up to $2,500 annually at the 100% standard
Participation is entirely voluntary
Designated rowing coaches, group training, and individual coaching are available to help employees prepare
The first testing cycle begins in October 2026

Career Development & Advancement

Specialized Divisions (Sworn Personnel)

Multiple career paths including investigations, special operations, and support units
Internal advancement opportunities

Professional Development

Agency-funded training and certifications
Skill development aligned with career progression

Tuition Reimbursement

Available after 2 years of service
Supports degree completion and advanced education

Additional Advantages

Flexible enrollment options for life events
Family coverage options available
Strong organizational support structure

Summary

The DeSoto County Sheriff's Office provides:

Immediate healthcare coverage
Long-term pension-backed retirement
Family-focused benefits including parental leave
Structured career growth and development
Paid incentives for physical fitness through the voluntary Rowing Fitness Program