Veteran officer to retire for advanced education degree
Comet staff report
Carroll County Sheriff Tony Burns announced Thursday long-time Sheriff Deputy Sgt. Mark Back will retire May 3 to further his education.

Back

Sgt. Back said he planned to pursue a life-long goal to attain a degree in secondary education. He also expressed desire to become involved in coaching.

Sgt. Back's career with the county's law enforcement agency began July 12, 1991, under former sheriff Lee Hoard. During his tenure with the department, Back served in several capacities. He was instrumental in starting the county's K-9 program when he brought K-9 "Mark" on board. He was also active in the department's scuba diving program and played a vital role as an instructor for the patrol rifle program. Most recently he was nightshift supervisor for the patrol and jail divisions.

Sgt. Back said he was grateful to the community and enjoyed his position.

"I appreciate the support of community in the past with the canine program," he said. "There was an outpouring that was tremendous and we couldn't have done it without their help. I still love my job, and wanted to leave while I still enjoyed it."