LABELLE - Sheriff Whidden invites all of Hendry County to join in the fun during the 10th Annual Brian Haas Golf Tournament on Jan. 16, 2021. All proceeds from the tournament will go directly to the Brian Haas Memorial Scholarship Fund.

Deputy Brian Haas was just 21-years-old when he was killed in an automobile accident while responding to a prowler call in Montura. He had served as a road deputy for five months, and had served with the Hendry County Sheriff’s Department for 2 years.

In memory of Brian Haas, the Brian Haas Criminal Justice Scholarship Charitable Trust was created to provide scholarships to Hendry County Sheriff’s Office Employees, Explorers and Volunteers who wish to further their education in the field of Criminal Justice. The funds raised are used to put people through Law Enforcement Academy, as well as cover travel expenses, college tuition, and fees associated with Explorer Competition and/or Advanced Training. The scholarship fund was created in May 2004 and has continued to grow, with the support of the community, every year.

“If you are unable to join and would like to make a donation to a great cause that is tax deductible …simply bring your donation to the Sheriffs Office or mail it in (made payable to Hendry County Sheriffs Office Attn: Brian Haas Criminal Justice Scholarship) 101 S. Bridge St. Labelle, FL, 33935 or PO Box 579 Labelle, FL 33975,” explained the HCSO in a Facebook post.

If you would like to participate, obtain a sign up sheet from 101 S. Bridge St. in LaBelle. If you’re not sure what to do, but want to participate, please contact Cindy West at 863 674-5622 or email: cwest@hendrysheriff.org.