My wife Lynne-Ann, daughter Lenora and I have lived in the San Juan’s since Sheriff Cumming hired me as Lead Detective eight years ago. I feel I am the best candidate for the job not only because of my experience but also because of my commitment to our community. You might recognize me from previous years handouts for the Safety Fairs on San Juan Island, yeah, I'm the guy helping the kids with the fire hose. I am co-coordinator with Fire Wise an organization that helps residents and neighborhoods assess their fire risks and then helps those same neighborhoods clear out debris and ladder fuel to make homes and the environment safer. I am the guy you may have passed on Beaverton Valley Road picking up trash along a two mile stretch with my family. You will see from my bio that I am a board member with Domestic Violence Sexual Assault Services and Chair of the SJC Veteran's Advisory Board and that I am involved in my home owners association. My commitment to community lead me to run for the office of Sheriff and I ask for your support.
Experience will be a key factor in this campaign for the position of Sheriff and where that experience was gained will be as important as what the experience is.
Yes, I originally retired from a major police department in New Mexico with over 1,100 officers. A large department gives the officer the opportunity to experience many different units and I exposed myself to as many as I could over the years. While with the Albuquerque Police Department I held the position of Field Sergeant, Administrative Sergeant and Investigative Sergeant.
I have completed many management classes throughout my career in law enforcement from the NCO Academy while in the Air Force, various management courses within the Albuquerque Police Department, to the management classes required for my Bachelor of Science Degree in Criminal Justice.
Although I originally came from a large department, I have the experience of working for a smaller department as an office for the University of Washington Police Department and for the past eight years as Lead Detective for the San Juan County Sheriff's Office. I have been an active volunteer in the San Juans for many years so I know truly know what the phrase "island way of life" means.
Please take some time to read my complete resume on the page titled "A More Detailed Look at Brent's Background."