As we look towards the future of Bulloch County, it’s imperative to remember the foundational elements that keep our community safe. I’m Keith Howard, a steadfast candidate for Bulloch County Sheriff, and I want to bring to your attention the paramount importance of the upcoming Republican primary on May 21, 2024. This election is not just about selecting a sheriff; it’s about choosing the direction of safety, justice, and community support for our beloved county.
In reflecting on our shared history, we recall the Crime Suppression Team, initiated under Sheriff Anderson’s leadership. This team was a cornerstone in our fight against crime, engaging personnel from three pivotal agencies: the Sheriff’s Office, Statesboro PD, and Georgia Southern PD. Its mission was clear and impactful—to relentlessly pursue criminals who threaten the peace of our residents and visitors in both incorporated and unincorporated areas of Bulloch County.
This team’s achievements were nothing short of extraordinary. With a conviction rate of 96%, over 525 felony arrests, and the seizure of more than 100 firearms, along with significant amounts of cash and property from illegal drug sales, its effectiveness was proven. Beyond these numbers, the team played a crucial role in patrolling schools, ensuring the safety of our students and teachers, and providing vital training and support for courtroom testimonies.
Despite the undeniable success and community reliance on the Crime Suppression Team, it was dishearteningly disbanded in early 2017 by the current administration, a move that significantly impacted our county’s safety and crime rates. The dissolution of this team signaled a shift away from proven crime-fighting strategies, leaving a void that has yet to be adequately filled.
My pledge to you, as a candidate for Sheriff, is to reinstate the Crime Suppression Team and its original mission. This commitment is not just about restoring a program; it’s about reinstating our community’s faith in our ability to combat crime effectively. By reinvigorating this team, we will not only enhance our direct action against crime but also reestablish partnerships with local and state agencies, including rekindling the beneficial relationship with federal agencies.
The training and resources provided by these partnerships are invaluable, offering advanced skills and technologies at no cost to our taxpayers. Furthermore, by engaging in proactive investigations into felony drug manufacturing and trafficking, we aim to address the root causes of gang activity, violent crimes, and sex trafficking in our community.
In line with my vision for a comprehensive approach to law enforcement, I also advocate for the decriminalization of misdemeanor marijuana offenses to citations. This strategy will alleviate the burden on our jail system and allow our officers to focus on more severe crimes, thereby enhancing overall community safety.
As we approach the May 21, 2024, Republican primary, it’s crucial to remember that the role of Sheriff is pivotal in ensuring the safety and security of Bulloch County. I am committed to a policy of transparency, efficacy, and community-first policing. My mission is to significantly reduce crime rates and provide a safe environment for all residents and visitors.
Bulloch County deserves a Sheriff who prioritizes public safety over politics, who is dedicated to effective crime suppression, and who recognizes the importance of collaboration and community engagement. Together, we can make Bulloch County proud and strong.
Remember, the path to a safer Bulloch County is in your hands. Your vote in the Republican primary on May 21, 2024, is more than just a selection of a candidate; it’s a commitment to our community’s safety and future. Let’s stand together for a safer, stronger Bulloch County.