08/07/2026
CEDA Leadership Spotlight
Scott Arnold
CEDA President
👤 Brief Introduction
My name is Scott Arnold, and I serve as a Detective with the Pike County Sheriff’s Office and as the President of CEDA (Commission to End Drug Abuse). I am passionate about serving our community and helping connect people with the resources they need to build healthier, stronger lives.
🤝 How would you describe CEDA to someone who’s never heard of it?
CEDA is much more than an organization focused on substance use, it is a community resource hub dedicated to helping the citizens of Pike County. Whether someone is seeking recovery support, rehabilitation services, prevention resources, or assistance with other life challenges, CEDA works to connect them with the right people and organizations.
Our team includes representatives from law enforcement, Purdue Extension, the Health Department, County Council, RISE Peer Recovery, private medical providers, the Prosecutor’s Office, the Pike County Public Library, and many other community partners. By bringing these organizations together, CEDA is able to gather information, coordinate resources, and help guide Pike County residents toward the support they need.
💡 What’s one thing you wish more people understood about recovery, prevention, or substance use?
Recovery is not one-size-fits-all. Every person is different, and everyone is at a different stage in life. Because of that, the path to recovery and the support someone needs will look different from person to person. Meeting people where they are and providing individualized support gives them the best opportunity to succeed.
😊 Fun Fact About Me
One thing most people don’t know about me is that I’m a “yes” person when it comes to helping others. If it benefits someone in our community, I’m usually all in.
I love Pike County and want to see it continue to prosper because it’s my home. In addition to serving as a Detective and President of CEDA, I also serve as a youth minister and promote mixed martial arts events through Southern Indiana Combat Production.
I grew up in a difficult environment where abuse and substance use shaped much of my childhood. Those experiences have fueled my passion for helping others. While my job often involves making narcotics arrests, the moments that mean the most to me are hearing that someone’s life has changed and that addiction no longer has a hold on them. Those success stories remind me why this work matters. I will always be a cheerleader for the underdog and believe that recovery is possible.