As we approach the election, it is time for La Plata County to stop and give thought to the type of leadership we want in the sheriff’s office. With this election, there is a particularly fortunate opportunity to change leadership and select an honest man of impeccable character to lead the sheriff’s department.

That man is Sean Smith.

Smith brings to the table more than 20 years of law enforcement experience at a number of different levels. Working at the local, state and federal levels of law enforcement has provided Smith the opportunity to acquire the knowledge he needs to lead the La Plata County Sheriff’s Office. But the key thing that Smith brings to the table is the respect he holds for the residents of the area and our community in particular. It is a fact that the current sheriff views many of the newcomers with disdain. Smith recognizes that our community is made up a diverse lot of people from a wide variety of backgrounds. He understands that many still hold values foreign to those we locals hold; he still gives them the respect they deserve.

Law enforcement officers take an oath to uphold the law. They are not taking an oath to interpret the law. That is up to the courts and DAs. Sean Smith understands the difference, even though the current sheriff seems not to.

Clearly, it is time for new leadership in the sheriff’s office. We deserve a better steward of the office than we now have. It is important that the chief law enforcement in the community respects the residents he is elected to serve. Smith will do that and do it with integrity. I would encourage everyone to cast their vote for sheriff for Sean Smith.

David Black

Bayfield