County sheriff’s race: Fortney upholds law with compassion

Published 1:30 am Sunday, November 5, 2023

A friend recently advised me to attend a meet-and-greet for Sheriff Adam Fortney. I am glad I did. Much information was gathered that night which has lead me to conclude he is the best candidate and needs to be re-elected.

As I listened to him explain his Lead the Way program, I quickly realized he has a commitment to not only enforce the law but to do it with compassion. If you are not familiar with this program, it was begun in 2021 to address the growing problem of youth ages 13-17 who are already in the criminal justice system. This program channels the youth into a more positive direction. Adam says, “Law enforcement must be in the game of helping people change their lives as well as enforcing the law.” I urge you to go on the website and see about this program for yourself.

More information was acquired at the meet and greet that solidified my support. During the pandemic, in the face of stiff criticism and opposition, he kept the Snohomish County Jail open while other jails were closing. By doing that, he put public safety first and foremost. I like that in a public servant.

Fortney advocates for transparency, treatment for the drug addicted, enforcing the law and doing it with compassion. His vision statement is on the Snohomish County Sheriff’s website and I urge you to read it and know that his actions reflect all that he says.

Marilyn Echelbarger

Mukilteo