I believe the Sonoma County Sheriff’s office needs to get back to the basics – ensuring public safety above all else, being fair and accountable and building partnerships to better engage with the community we serve. That’s why I’ve announced my candidacy for sheriff, and it’s why I’d like to have a conversation with you, and perhaps ask a favor.
First, let me share a little about my background. I’ve worked for the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office for more than 23 years, starting as a correctional officer in the jail and holding 10 different posts throughout the organization.
Having served as both administrative and field services captain, I have been responsible for the day-to-day operations of multiple divisions, managing budgets greater than $50 million and overseeing more than 250 employees who provide public safety around the clock.
In 2014, I was promoted to lieutenant, where I represented the office on the Local Law Enforcement Task Force. Our charge was to really examine the relationship between public safety and the communities we serve – and to correct problems with transparency, oversight and community relations. At the same time, I led the personnel and internal affairs units – giving me perhaps more perspective than anyone about what was working, and what needed repair.
I’m very proud of my work as the founder and program director of the Sheriff’s Office Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) program. I worked with Sonoma County Mental Health to train peace officers in de-escalation and intervention techniques to assist those in mental health crisis. Still active today, more than 400 peace officers in Sonoma County have completed the training.
I’m a lifelong resident of the North Bay.
I earned a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice at Sacramento State, and my Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from Golden Gate University while I was working full-time. My wife and I live in Cloverdale, where we’ve raised our children and watched them grow and give back to the community that means so much to our family. We’re committed to making our communities better, and actively participate in youth sports and public school activities. We’re active members of Healdsburg Community Church.
I’m committed to Sonoma County – and I know you are, too. I’m confident that if we all work together, we can keep Sonoma County a special place to live for another generation. That’s why I’d like to earn your endorsement of my candidacy.
My website has a few more details about my Community Commitments Plan and my policy agenda for the next four years. Would you take a few minutes to review it and offer any thoughts you might have?
Please call my personal cell at 483-4622 if I can answer any questions or if you’d like to sit down for a cup of coffee. I’d love to hear from you, and I’d be honored to have your support.
