My Stance on Crime
Over the next few weeks, I want to address assorted topics that I believe are important for me to address and to help you learn more about who I am, what I stand for, and what I believe. This week, I want to talk to you about my stance on crime and protecting you.
A Firm Commitment to Public Safety
Public safety has always been my highest priority, and I have consistently approached this responsibility with unwavering dedication throughout my career in law enforcement.
My stance on crime is both strong, focused and accountable. As your sheriff, I will use whatever resources I can to keep you, your families, and those visiting our amazing county safe from people who threaten the safety and well-being of our communities by their lack of respect for the law and for the people who live here.
As your sheriff, I pledge to do everything within my power to keep you safe and secure. My goal is clear — to make Washington County the safest county in Nebraska. I will not settle for anything less, and I will continue to lead with determination and vigilance to uphold this promise.
Fostering a Safe and Secure Community
I want you to feel safe and secure — whether you’re at home, walking down the street, enjoying a picnic in one of our parks, or dining with family and friends. You deserve to know that we are standing watch over our county, remaining vigilant, combating crime aggressively, and sending a clear message to those who would disrupt our peace: Washington County will not tolerate unlawful or disruptive behavior.
A strong Sheriff’s Office starts with strong people. I am committed to investing in training, mental health support, and retention of our deputies, correction officers, dispatchers, and staff — because taking care of those who serve ensures better service to our community.
Building a Law Enforcement Coalition
Public safety doesn’t stop at the county lines. I will strengthen coordination with local, state and regional agencies to share intelligence, align strategies and respond more effectively to emerging threats. I’ve already started to do this.
Leveraging Technology Responsibly
Modern policing requires modern tools. I will prioritize responsible use of technology such as data-driven policing strategies, real-time information sharing between agencies, and carefully implemented AI tools to help identify crime trends, allocate resources efficiently and improve response times. These tools will always be implemented with strict safeguards to protect privacy and constitutional rights.
Strengthening Community Partnerships
Another proven strategy for reducing crime is strengthening community bonds by encouraging neighbors to be vigilant and to look out for one another. Part of my vision is to enhance community relations and build community partnerships. This includes improving the way the Sheriff’s Office interacts with the public and developing robust awareness and crime prevention programs that benefit everyone. This means being visible and accessible — through town halls, school outreach, neighborhood meetings, and partnerships with local organizations. I want the Sheriff’s Office to be something you know, not just something you call in an emergency.
Ensuring Accountability Through Prosecution
An essential part of maintaining public safety in Washington County is holding individuals accountable for their actions. To accomplish this, I will make it a priority to work closely with the Washington County Attorney's Office. Through this partnership, we make sure that individuals who choose to break the law are brought to justice and held accountable for their behavior.
Posted on 27 Mar 2026, 10:47 - Category: News