Friday, February 13, 2009 12:16 pm

Sheriff Jon Hayden seems to be everywhere in the Purchase since he took office just a few years ago. Task forces, drug busts, joint campaigns with state and federal agencies, Hayden and his deputies have raised the level of professional policing throughout the region.

Hayden has won the respect of McCracken Countians for his straight shooter demeanor and his Detective Joe Friday approach to law enforcement.

We heard a storm story last week about McCracken County Sheriff Jon Hayden that, while it may not be perfectly word for word, sure sounds like him.

During the ice storm, containers of gasoline intended for a nursing home generator were stolen.

Sheriff Hayden went on television, and according to our source, faced the camera and addressed the thief,"My name is Jon Hayden. I AM the sheriff of McCracken County. When I catch you - and I will catch you - you'd better have God on your side."

Photos are from the McCracken County Sheriff's website www.mccrackencountysheriff.com.