Meet your local law enforcement: PC Sheriff’s Deputy Sargent Brian Gertsch

Sergeant Brian Gertsch brings years of law enforcement experience and a strong connection to the Perkins County community to his role with the sheriff’s department. Originally from North Platte, Gertsch has been with the Perkins County Sheriff’s Office since 2019 and has been in law enforcement since 2014.

Gertsch said he was drawn to law enforcement because it offers variety and purpose. “It offers something new every day, and I don’t have to be indoors all day,” he said. “I like that the purpose of my job is more than just making a company money.”

His journey to Perkins County combined career opportunity with a desire to raise his children in a small-town environment. “I saw PCSO as a way to maintain a career I had built as well as move closer to family and provide my children an upbringing in a small town,” Gertsch said.

Being a resource for the community has been the most rewarding aspect of his work. “Getting to know people in the community and being a resource for them has been really satisfying,” he said. Challenges include working alone in remote areas, facing severe weather, and always being ready to respond - even on personal time.

Living locally, Gertsch said, strengthens his connection to the community. “It provides me a vested interest in the safety of the community and the success of the sheriff’s office,” he said. He added that many people don’t realize the personal sacrifices law enforcement officers make. “We give up many personal rights to do the job, which we would otherwise be able to exercise as civilians.”

A typical day for Gertsch includes patrolling the county, checking for anything unusual, completing report writing, and serving civil process papers. 

Outside of work, Gertsch said he enjoys fishing, playing fetch with his dog, riding motorcycles, and drinking coffee on his porch. He is also involved in community activities through his children’s events.

When asked about his favorite local spot, Gertsch said, “Definitely the city pool.” And when it comes to the part of the day he looks forward to most, he admitted, “Dinner.”