To the editor:

I am writing this letter in support of Luke Fleener for Webster County Sheriff.

I have known Luke for the past 30 years. During those years, Luke has been more than a coworker and friend. He has been a fellow sheriff’s deputy, detective, sergeant, and my immediate supervisor.

Luke greatly influenced my career in law enforcement. When Luke was a police officer with the Fort Dodge Police Department, I began “riding along” with him to see if law enforcement was a career I wanted to pursue. Since that time, I served as a law enforcement officer in the state of Iowa for 27 years, with the last 20 years of my career with the Webster County Sheriff’s Office. I worked closely with Luke during that time, and I can attest to the dedication, knowledge, experience, and professionalism that he applies toward his duties. I have also seen firsthand his absolute care for the citizens of Webster County; especially those affected by crime.

Luke has worked in all divisions of the Sheriff’s Office including the jail, patrol, and investigations. He has also served in a supervisory role for several years. As such, he is extremely knowledgeable about the operations of the Sheriff’s Office.

During my last 11 years in the Sheriff’s Office, I was assigned to the criminal investigations division as a detective. Luke was my sergeant and immediate supervisor. Luke has impeccable leadership skills and leads by example with passion, outstanding communication skills, and integrity. He is level-headed and self-accountable. As a leader, I could always count on Luke to communicate directly.

Luke always gave me direction when I needed it and I knew he would jump in to manage whatever situation presented itself while we worked criminal cases. Being in charge of the criminal investigations division, Luke worked to manage the assets of the division in the most efficient and fiscally responsible way possible. This managerial experience will assist Luke in all aspects of running the Sheriff’s Department.

Luke’s leadership skills are evident in his role as a founding organizer, team commander, and training coordinator for the multi-agency Regional Special Emergency Response Team. In this capacity, Luke has again shown his ability to manage the assets of the team efficiently.

As an instructor for the ALERRT (Advanced Law Enforcement Rapid Response Training) program, Luke has trained law enforcement officers across the United States, showcasing his extensive knowledge of law enforcement tactics and ability to communicate effectively. Luke regularly presents to many community organizations including the Citizens Academy conducted by the Fort Dodge Police Department.

Luke has fostered positive relationships with other law enforcement agencies on the local, state, and federal level. He has also worked with many local community organizations. These connections will be an immediate asset to the citizens of Webster County. The positive relationships that Luke has built are essential to an effective, proactive, community approach to public safety.

Luke’s background, experience, and knowledge makes him an outstanding candidate for Webster County Sheriff. The citizens of Webster County can be confident in his ability to professionally, effectively, and efficiently provide public safety. Although life has taken me away from Webster County, Luke Fleener would have my vote for sheriff of Webster County. I encourage all Webster County residents to vote Luke Fleener for Sheriff.

Jason Bahr

Former deputy, Webster County Sheriff’s Office

Crescent