The Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office welcomes Deputy Sheriff Andrew Penland, who officially began his new role on Monday, May 19.
He began his law enforcement career in May 2018, working in the Bourbon County Jail. He transitioned to a reserve deputy role in October that same year. In 2020, he graduated from the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center and began as a Deputy Sheriff in Bourbon County. Deputy Penland later served as a K-9 handler for Xena, his police dog partner, from June 2022 to May 2025. He also earned certification as a Drug Recognition Expert.
Originally from Omaha, Neb., Penland moved frequently growing up due to his father’s career with the U.S. Postal Service. His childhood included time in Tennessee and Texas before he ultimately graduated from Lonestar High School, in Frisco, Texas. He later attended Fort Scott Community College (FSCC), initially enrolling in the John Deere program before discovering a passion for public service.
While attending FSCC, Penland met his wife Linda, a Fredonia High School graduate, in 2017. With hopes of returning to her roots, the Penlands moved to Fredonia last year and his wife, along with her brother, purchased and now operate the Fall River Market.
“What I love most about law enforcement is that every day is different,” Penland said. “The variety keeps things interesting and gives me the chance to make a difference in multiple ways.”
