Southern Graduate retires from career in law enforcement

 Matthew Richards, former Racine Marshall and graduate of Southern Local Class of 1991, will be retiring this week from Gallipolis Developmental Center.

The Gallipolis Developmental Center is recognizing Richards for his accomplishments through the years. He came to DoDD Gallipolis Developmental Center 27 years ago.

On April 7, 2023, he will retire as one of the most loved and honored employees at Gallipolis Developmental Center, according to a statement from Paul Waugh, superintendent of GDC. Richards was more than a Police Officer for DoDD.

“Matthew traveled throughout the state as a Trauma Informed Care champion taking care of individuals that we served. Matt took time out of his day-to-day duties to make sure every one of the GDC individuals and staff members were safe and felt loved,” stated Waugh.

Richards is a member of the Executive Staff team, Health and Safety committee, Employee Appreciation Committee, Employee Recognition Group, Moving Forward/Focus Group, Positive Supports Trainer, and Grounds wide activities Committee.

Richards was Racine Village Marshal for four years before going to GDC in Gallipolis Ohio. Richards started his law enforcement career 31 years ago. He then moved on to working at GDC.

Richards told the Meigs Independent Press that he plans to spend more time with family and friends, to travel, go camping and to raise cattle and grain on the family farm in Gallia County.