Turning Priorities Into Action
As sheriff, it is my duty to ensure equal protection for every citizen of Lewis County through transparency, accountability, and professionalism. I will focus on crime, keeping our communities safe, and confronting the drug crisis that is killing our kids and loved ones. I will ensure the Lewis County Sheriff's Office keeps pace with modern technology so our deputies have the tools they need to serve the public efficiently, effectively, and safely. I will lead a well- trained, well-equipped, and properly supervised workforce, supported by the best and brightest administration, establish clear policies and direction, and hold offenders accountable while providing a safe and secure corrections facility for them to serve out their sentences. Together with my team, we will build and maintain partnerships with other law enforcement organizations, volunteer groups, civic leaders, and elected officials to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the LCSO. Leaders should serve by example. As Sheriff, I will lead with humility, integrity, and a servant’s heart. I intend to be visible, approachable, and active in our communities. My leadership team will be dedicated to the safety and security of our citizens while modeling professionalism and ethical behavior at every level. The Office of Sheriff is the People’s Office, and they are whom we serve.
Recruit, Retain & Develop Quality Employees
A strong Sheriff’s Office begins with quality people. Recruiting good employees is important, but keeping experienced employees and helping them grow is equally important.
I will focus on creating an environment where employees feel valued and have strong supervision, meaningful training, clear expectations, mentorship, and opportunities for professional development.
Improve Jail Safety & Reduce Recidivism
The Lewis County Jail has two important responsibilities: maintaining a safe and secure corrections environment and preparing individuals to successfully return to the community when their sentences or detention end.
I will support corrections employees with the training, supervision, and resources necessary to operate a safe facility while working with appropriate community partners to address factors that contribute to repeat offending.
Target Illegal Drug Trafficking
Illegal drugs affect families, contribute to crime, and create significant challenges for communities throughout Lewis County.
Drawing on my years of narcotics enforcement experience, I will prioritize coordinated efforts to identify, disrupt, and dismantle drug trafficking organizations affecting our communities and killing our family members.
Strengthen Regional Partnerships
Crime does not stop at city or county boundaries, and neither should cooperation among public safety agencies.
I will strengthen working relationships with law enforcement agencies, fire and emergency services, schools, local governments, nonprofits, and other community partners to make better use of resources and address shared challenges.
Transparency & Accountability
Transparency builds trust. The public deserves open communication about policies, operations, and significant incidences. I will use press releases, community meetings and social media to share accurate information and respond honestly to public concerns. I will be a visible presence in the community and available to the public. Accountability means taking responsibility for mistakes and ensuring internal investigations are fair, documented, and when appropriate, shared in summary form with the public. No one, regardless of position, is above the law.
Pursue Professional Accreditation
Professional accreditation provides an independent framework for evaluating policies, procedures, training, accountability, and organizational practices.
I will pursue accreditation as part of a broader effort to ensure the Sheriff’s Office follows recognized professional standards and continually evaluates how it serves employees and the public.
Restore Volunteer Opportunities
Volunteers can provide valuable support to law enforcement while creating stronger connections between the Sheriff’s Office and the citizens it serves. Additionally, volunteers help to meet our mission by providing force multipliers and keeping costs down.
I will work to restore meaningful volunteer opportunities and explore programs that allow citizens of different ages and backgrounds to learn, serve, and contribute to public safety.
Administration
I will ensure that the best and brightest individuals serve in my administration, those who share a commitment to fiscal responsibility, transparency, and the highest standards of professional public service. I will select individuals by merit and capability, not campaign promises.
A Practical Approach
Not every challenge can be solved overnight, and effective leadership requires continually evaluating what is working and what needs to change.
These initiatives provide a starting point: support our employees, focus resources on public safety, strengthen professional standards, build effective partnerships, involve the community, and continually look for ways to improve the Sheriff’s Office.