Candidate profile: Kootenai County Sheriff, Tom Dickson (I)

Birth date: 2-27-35

Profession: Rancher

Educational background: B.A., Admin. of Justice; M.A., Public Admin.

Community service (service clubs, nonprofit boards, etc.):  President, NW Criminal Justice Ed. Association

How many years as a resident of your city:  25 years

Marital status: Single

Family: Two sons

Hobbies: Various interests and hobbies

1.       Why are you running for office?

Law enforcement has the responsibility to provide protection and service to all persons and property. That means active or passive. It must protect and preserve an environment which permits the activities within the community it serves to function without disruption. For years, the sheriff’s department has failed these standards and goals. “It could be time for a change!”

2.       What do you see as the three biggest issues you'll face?  

Public service and community cooperation; personnel retention; jail issues.

3.       If elected, what steps will you take to resolve these issues?

a. Public service and community cooperation. Law enforcement should concentrate on the prevention and detection of serious crimes, the investigation of criminal activities, and the apprehension of those responsible. Pro-active enforcement involves citizens and law enforcement pairing together to detect and control community criminal activity. However, they should be cognizant and supportive of their respective roles in crime control.

 b. Personnel retention. It is imperative that each employee of the Sheriff’s Office realize their value to the department. Subsequently, they should be commended for work well done, or disciplined for infractions. The sheriff should provide effective job-related training for deputies, supervisors, and managerial employees. Because an organization is determined by its personnel quality, all should be trained for their respective roles.

c. Jail issues. According to your article dated 9-13-12, privatization, new public jail, it would appear the jail issue is a moot point. However, I would caution the commissioners to proceed cautiously on their fiscal responsibilities. Private security is a complex and diverse field. Dilemmas, distortions and half-truths cloud the decision-making process of alternate security options. The private security industry exists to make a profit for the provision of its services.

 4. What specific skills or experience qualify you for this job?  

 Thirty-five years of law enforcement experience and teaching.

5. Why should voters elect you, rather than an opponent?  

 In this election, voters have an obligation to review and assess each candidate’s qualifications. They then have a choice to select whom they decide would best represent their community as sheriff. Vote for a professional or retain the status quo!