The Fugitive Watch Most Wanted Program helps law enforcement locate dangerous fugitives by featuring them on our television program, newspaper and the internet free of charge to law enforcement saving tax payers millions of dollars. Under the previous sheriff, Charles Gillingham, Fugitive Watch had the full participation and cooperation of all federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, including the sheriff’s department.
Thousands of arrest warrants are held by the sheriff’s department and the sheriff has a responsibility to arrest people wanted by these warrants. However, it became our experience that under the administration of Laurie Smith, the sheriff’s department’s participation was virtually non-existent.
Being sheriff is a leadership position and being a leader is critical to running a successful organization. However, having the title does not make you a leader. We do not believe Laurie Smith is a leader.
According to recent media reports, she has chosen to invoke her right against self-incrimination under the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution rather than answer questions during a grand jury investigation into alleged corruption in her administration. No rank and file law enforcement officer would be allowed to refuse to answer questions about their alleged corruption and still keep their job.
We understand that nearly 100% of the thousands of law enforcement officers throughout Santa Clara County, including her rank and file deputies, refuse to endorse her.
On the other hand, we met with Kevin Jensen and spoke with him at length about his visions and ideas to improve the sheriff’s department. We also spoke with many law enforcement officers throughout the county who describe him as a true leader with the talents needed to revitalize the sheriff’s department and return it to its full potential.
Thousands of law enforcement officers throughout Santa Clara County, including the sheriff’s department’s rank and file, endorse him and describe him as a leader and precisely the person we need as sheriff.
We believe one of the most critical needs our men and women, who risk their lives for us, must have is leadership. Kevin is a man of integrity with a strong work ethic and a proven leader.
It is an honor for us to endorse Kevin Jensen for Sheriff of Santa Clara County for these reasons.
This Op-Ed is the sole opinion of
Steve Ferdin, CEO and Scott Castruita, President
Fugitive Watch Productions, Inc