Dear Editor:
I have proudly dedicated my life to Law Enforcement. I retired as a senior investigator from the New York State Police, having spent 27 1/2 years protecting the citizens of this state. I then spent 3 of the next 5 years in Afghanistan, once again fighting crime, and the war on terrorism, embedded with U.S. Army units. I continue to be a Law Enforcement officer locally. Having spent my life on the front lines, both home and abroad, I am uniquely aware of what it takes to be a good cop. One thing I do know for absolute certainty is that Tom Dougherty is one of the best cops I know. Without question, he has what it takes to keep our community safe as our next Sheriff.
This Sheriff’s race in Livingston County is the first time, in any fashion, that I have gotten involved with anything political. I have known Tom for many years. I became knowledgeable about him through my professional contact with him as well as having interviewed his family, friends etc. in my professional capacity as a Trooper. I knew immediately this was a guy that would lead AND be followed. Not the old nasty negativity that people have been getting for years. That is why Law Enforcement has backed him. Those on the inside know what a difference Tom will make compared to the old “promoted-due-to-their-loyalty-to-the-Boss’s crew.” Don’t be fooled by so called experience. Making decisions and having courage in your convictions are something that does not come with years of doing the boss’s bidding. It comes from doing the right thing when the time comes. Tom is doing that and it is obvious in his campaign of taking the high road when unleashing the negative is so easy.
The lack of integrity, spin and low road tactics that I have witnessed from the “other camp” reminds me of the element of society that I sought to protect others from throughout my career in Law Enforcement. I encourage people to get involved. This is a big deal for our county. I am supporting Tom Dougherty for Sheriff because I know first hand that he is the right guy for the job. I hope that everyone who reads this will support him too.
Robert Fuller, Livonia, New York”