To the editor:

I very seldom submit letters to the editor, especially in local elections because I usually know both candidates and supporters on both sides. That is certainly the case with the race for Webster County sheriff this year. I believe the position of sheriff, however, is such an important position that I feel obligated to publicly lend my support to Tony Walter. I’ve been practicing law in this community since 1985 and have served as an Assistant Webster County Attorney, a private criminal defense lawyer and most recently as city attorney. In all those capacities I have been involved in dealing with law enforcement officers both for and against. In those experiences I have come the realize the importance of integrity and character in our officers and deputies.

I believe law enforcement agencies are only as good as the leaders who lead them. It is this belief that leads me to publicly support Tony Walter for sheriff. Through both personal and professional interaction with Tony, I’ve come to know an outstanding deputy and even better person. He has voluntarily take on the extra duties of canine officer which is becoming necessary tool in protecting our public. I am familiar with the extra off-duty work caring for and training a canine officer. Recently, Tony was able to track down and capture a murder suspect because of his dedication to the canine unit. He is a tremendous family man who is dedicated to his wife, children and step children. The dedication to his children carries over to the youth of our community. He wants to build relationships and not jails. He knows that in order to build a safer community it has to start with the youth. His character and integrity are beyond reproach and I encourage all to cast a vote for Tony as your next sheriff. Tony will continue to instill the confidence and trust in the Department through these difficult times for law enforcement.

Mark Crimmins

Fort Dodge