Why are so Many People Running for Sheriff?

To the Editor:

During the past eight months, I have seen about five people running for Sheriff. As a 30-year retired Police Officer and Constable in Texas (Military and Civilian), I wondered why so many people were running for Sheriff. I made it my personal concern to find out more facts about the sheriffs office.

First the executive staff has increased, but the number of patrol deputies has stayed the same. That`s why my area, where I live sees a deputy when they are called. Second, the K-9, Swat, Dive Team, Aviation Unit and Task Force have been eliminated. These are very useful tools in protecting the citizens of Levy County. Three K-9`s have been purchased this voting year for thousands of dollars each, for purchase and training. The Sheriffs budget has increased by $2 million. There are employees who live in other counties and our tax dollars are paying for their cars. Three people who ran for the Sheriff`s seat are former employees of this Sheriff. About 60 of the 140 employees of the Sheriffs Dept. have left. That`s a 43% turnover rate. One of the challengers, the Chief Deputy, gave up a $71,000 a year job to run against his boss. (That`s the first I`ve heard of that!) He knows there is a management problem.

When I see facts, like people leaving the department, doing away with vital tools of law enforcement, not having enough patrol deputies, former employees running against their boss, I`d like to know just whom this sheriff is dedicated to! It doesn`t look like the citizens of Levy County and experience; I`d have to question that too!

In closing, I would like to say that I have always had law enforcement in my heart. I had the people I served in mind to give them the best protection that my department could give. I don`t think this Sheriff has given even his best. It`s evident by these facts, we as citizens of Levy County, deserve the best we can get. So let`s get someone else. I hope you, as I do, look at the facts and vote wisely, not necessarily with your party. I know whom I`m voting for-.Do you??

David Roden
Chiefland, FL 32626