Did union endorsements represent officers in sheriff’s election?

Published 1:30 am Wednesday, January 10, 2024

Former sheriff Adam Fortney’s refusal to meet with the sheriff-elect is disappointing, but not surprising (“Sheriff Fortney says he won’t meet with successor before she’s sworn in,” The Herald, Dec. 22). His lack of professionalism and character were apparent from early in his tenure as Snohomish County Sheriff. If there were any questions about if the right person won the election, they have been answered.

This leads me to this statement: Shame on the many police organizations that endorsed Fortney in the election. They either did not know, or did not care, about his faults. It is my understanding that many of these endorsements were made without input from rank-and-file patrol officers, and before a challenger had entered the race.

I worry about the growing rift and lack of trust between our community and our police. I have been privileged to count several officers as friends over the years. I know that the great majority of officers are great people in a tough job. When those who violate the high standards needed in this profession are protected and not held accountable, trust is eroded. To those organizations who endorsed Fortney, your actions tell us that you value solidarity over integrity. Shame on you.

Jack Stephens

Edmonds