GRANT COUNTY SHERIFF

Reader disagrees with Clay, supports Matney

I read with interest Dennis Clay's guest editorial (Sept. 16, 2010) on the succession which might occur within the office of the sheriff. Mr. Clay is correct in understanding the quasi-military structure of the sheriff's office, in which authority flows through a chain of command. What Mr. Clay misunderstands, is the chain of authority is not the chain of succession. In fact, law requires that the coroner assume those duties. It will then be up to the political party to which the sheriff belongs, along with the Board of County Commissioners, to appoint an interim sheriff.

This is one reason the office of the coroner is so important and also often misunderstood. In addition to dealing with the recently deceased, investigating and budgeting, there is also a law enforcement element.

Subsequently, I disagree with Mr. Clay's opinion that sheriff candidates should announce who their command staff will be. As I recall, Sheriff Frank DeTrolio did not announce his appointments prior to taking office when he was first elected, either. Both then and now, the reasons for it are sound. These elections are divisive and distracting. It would have a negative effect on the efficiency of the department if its middle manager and supervisors were to learn through the news media that they were about to be promoted, demoted or reassigned. It certainly could adversely affect discipline. If Tom Jones is elected, his wisest move is to act for the good of the sheriff's office and the citizens at the time.

The coroner, called upon to assume the duties of the sheriff, also has a responsibility, although unwritten, to be familiar with this obligation, in an effective manner, which serves the public rust. Dave Matney's 25 years of law enforcement experience makes him both familiar with and capable of this duty.

Matt Messer

Marlin