To the editor:

I am writing this letter to encourage all Webster County voters to elect Luke Fleener sheriff.

I have served as a deputy sheriff in Humboldt County since 2007. Since that time, I’ve had the opportunity to work closely with Luke on many occasions. I have always been impressed with his knowledge, work ethic and integrity.

Luke’s resume in the sheriff’s office is second to none. He has experience as a road deputy, supervising employees and directly investigating and supervising major crimes. I can personally attest to his ability as an investigator. We’ve had the opportunity to work closely on numerous cases in the past. I’ve found him to be very thorough with a never-give-up mentality.

Skills learned as an investigator translate well into being a sheriff. Investigators must be level-headed, persistent and must form relationships with other agencies at the local, state and federal level. I can personally attest that Luke has close working relationships with surrounding agencies and state law enforcement that work in and around Webster County. Unique to Luke is his extensive experience at the federal level. He has formed relationships with federal law enforcement and the United States Attorney’s Office who prosecute federal crime.

Another of Luke’s strengths in law enforcement is as a trainer. I’ve had the opportunity to attend several training classes that Luke has instructed. Simply put, Luke is one of the best instructors I’ve ever had the opportunity to learn from. Luke has a unique way to relay information so that everyone understands, commend positive action, and correct shortcomings without insulting the student. These are skills critically important for someone entrusted to lead a department. If elected, I know one of Luke’s goals is to stress the importance of training and continuing education for all employees.

In short, few law enforcement officials in the state of Iowa have the background, experience and knowledge possessed by Luke Fleener. The citizens of Webster County will be in competent and deserving hands if he’s given the opportunity to lead the Webster County Sheriff’s Office into the future.

Cory J. Lampe

Chief Deputy

Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office