I have been in law enforcement for over 27 years, 25 of which I served as a member of the Pennsylvania State Police. During this time I worked with district attorneys in counties throughout Pennsylvania and many states. From my experience, I know the good ones never kept score of the wins, losses, or conviction rates but, instead, how they made a difference in the lives of the victims in all cases.

The present District Attorney of Pike County, Ray Tonkin, talks a good game about his conviction rate, but he never mentions the many cases where he does not allow charges to be filed. He talks of his homicide conviction rate, but fails to mention the confessions and the ample evidence obtained and provided by the state police during these cases. His recent campaign flyer makes it sound as if only he could prosecute the killer of Cpl. Dickson. The Pennsylvania State Troopers Association does not see it that way, as it has endorsed Kelly Gaughan.

Tonkin says he works hand in hand with law enforcement, but has not received backing by anyone in Pike County law enforcement that has full arrest powers.

Gaughan has 15 years of experience as an attorney and has handled hundreds of cases, involving all areas of civil court, including child custody and divorce. Gaughan files motions before the courts and appears on behalf of her clients almost daily. I have observed Gaughan in court and I am impressed by her strength. She is involved in civic organizations for child advocacy, domestic violence, victims’ support groups and veterans. At a recent memorial service for fallen Pennsylvania State Troopers, Gaughan was there. It was not a campaign stop; the cameras were not there for that reason. It was about caring. Gaughan showed she cares about our law enforcement, the victims of crime and our community.

Knowing both candidates as I do, I will vote for and will support Kelly Gaughan for Pike County District Attorney.

Lieutenant (retired) John P. Clader

Blooming Grove, PA