After spending about 25 years driving a truck and then working for the roads department, Zane Hopkins changed careers, becoming the first full-time deputy sheriff in the history of Banner County. He was then sworn in about a year ago as the Banner County Sheriff, a position he loves.
PHILIP ECKERBERG
Nspire Today! Feature Writer
BANNER COUNTY – Zane Hopkins is the sheriff in Banner County. He was sworn in as a Banner County Sheriff about a year ago. In this Q&A, he talks about his role as Banner County’s Sheriff, some of his past experiences, and several other questions.
Q: How did you get into law enforcement?
HOPKINS: “It took about 40 years. When I was in high school, Banner County Sheriff Pat Mooney let me do a ride along with him. He got me hooked. I went to college for law enforcement. Then I got married and had a kid. I needed money so I climbed into a truck for 25 years. I moved back to Banner County and started working for the roads department. Then Sheriff Stan McKnight told me that he was getting ready to retire. He wanted to hire a deputy. I became the first full-time deputy sheriff in the history of Banner County. I had to go to the Nebraska law enforcement training center and get certified. I then ran for Sheriff, won the election, and here I am.”
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