As a young boy, Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office Detective Joe Conteh was already in the fight for his, and his family's lives. He grew up in West Africa in the late 1980s when a civil war broke out there.
Detective Conteh remembers the adversity he and his family faced as they moved from country to country in order to escape, and survive, the war in the second episode of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office series, "Before the Badge." To those who may also be struggling in their own lives, he also offers some advice to get through difficult times.
"Don't look at life as a long race, it's not a marathon," said Detective Conteh. "It's a series of short races and you have 365 days in a year, all you have to do is work on your challenges, one day at a time."
"Before the Badge" showcases the trials and tribulations #teamHCSO staff has faced getting to where they are today. It will highlight the many different countries they are from, as well.
"I hope the candor showed by Detective Conteh, and all those featured on 'Before the Badge,' will offer insight and bring hope to everyone who watches this series," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "I can't say it enough: Our diversity is our greatest strength, and I believe 'Before the Badge' will serve as a reminder to all those in Hillsborough County that our deputies are just like them."
The second episode of the series featuring Detective Conteh is available for viewing here. Anyone who is interested in applying for a career at the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office should visit www.joinhcso.com for more information.
