I would like to voice my thoughts regarding the upcoming election for Sullivan County Sheriff.

I worked with Sheriff Michael Schiff and Undersheriff Eric Chaboty since they were first elected to their current positions.

There is nobody more qualified or more deserving for this office than our current Sheriff Mike Schiff. For the record, I began my law enforcement career in 1984. Back then, the Sheriff was Joe Wasser. After Joe Wasser retired, we had Dan Hogue. I received several promotions under Sheriff Hogue, to the rank of Detective Sergeant. The next Sheriff I worked under was the current administration. I did not receive any further promotions in my career and have served a total of 40 years in my field of law enforcement. I am currently retired. I mention this because none of my promotions were from the current Sheriff, and I have no obligations to him. I will give my personal, honest observations. 

Mike Schiff is truly a good man and a man of high integrity. People who took the time to get to know him already know this. He is truly a top-notch Sheriff. I know most of his critics very well. I worked with many of them. It’s quite obvious that these attacks are for personal reasons. Although I know many of the personal reasons, it’s not for me to air them out in a public fashion (that would be his challenger's style).  I think the critics should be honest with themselves and realize this. 

I believe Sheriff Schiff has bent backwards to try to improve and correct things from administrations in the past. He always tried to do what is best for the employees and the people of Sullivan County.  Employees began to expect that anything they want, they will get. They are not used to their wants being rejected, and they turn on you like a snake. I have the knowledge of hindsight, having worked as a cop for Sullivan County for a little over 40 years. I have seen so many extreme improvements since he became Sheriff, from salary to work environment and pride. I could go on and on. I feel that the county has many ongoing challenges and they are being addressed by the Sheriff. 

Bottom line is Sheriff Michael Schiff is the real deal. He has my support, my admiration and my vote. I hope he continues for another term.

Bob Clark

Town of Thompson, NY