Sheriff stands behind Second Amendment rights

Citizens and Residents of Grant County:

Just as all of you have, I, too, have watched media coverage where fellow citizens have been injured or killed in firearms-related incidents.

Regardless of how large or small the incident, or whether it happens in a home, a shopping mall, a movie theater, college or school, the results are always tragic.

I am saddened by what I have seen across our great country, as I am sure you are, too. I have received a lot of correspondence and concerns from the citizens of Grant County asking what my position is regarding the proposed gun law changes.

Because I consider myself a pro-second amendment sheriff, this is a very emotional and important topic for me. I also feel that it is important to let you, the citizens, know where I stand.

I am a firm believer that the root cause of our nation's incidents involving firearms is not the weapon used. The focus and the responsibility for these shootings should be on the violent and disturbed people who do the shootings. The focus should be the mental stability and intent of the person handling the weapon.

As your county sheriff, I am elected by you, the people, to uphold the laws and defend the Constitution of the United States and the Constitution of the State of Washington. Those constitutions allow law-abiding citizens a fundamental right to keep and bear arms.

I do not believe those rights should be infringed upon, nor do I believe that infringing on those rights is an answer to solving the nation's firearms concerns. I would like to make it clear that I oppose those who would try and take away these rights. I, as your Sheriff, support the citizens of this county against unconstitutional attempts to infringe on the right to keep and bear arms.

I do believe and strongly advocate for legislation that calls for improved background checks for gun buyers at stores, gun shows and private sales. Also, measures and funding to verify who can legally own guns; provide funding, improved access and quality of mental healthcare; and building partnerships across communities and the nation to help reduce gun violence.

This will not be a simple task and will require the support and effort of legislators and citizens throughout our country.

It is my honor to serve as your County Sheriff for the past two years. Although we are in trying times and some perceive our rights as citizens are being tested, I can tell you with confidence that I will continue to work hard on reducing crime in our county as well as protect the rights of the citizens I have been sworn to protect.

I ask and encourage all citizens of Grant County to help me protect both the lives of others and protect our legal rights and freedoms which our constitutions provide.