Community is a work in progress in most places I have lived. Family, military, big and small communities, like I'm proud to be part of now. Then there's the law enforcement community of county, state and local agencies. All with unique challenges.
As a new police chief in 2016, I joined Lewis County’s law enforcement community. I met Sheriff Rob Snaza for the first time expecting the smile of a used car salesman, coupled with the arrogance of many politicians. However, clear in his vision, he was building and maintaining solid partnerships with chiefs across Lewis County and learning how he could help. In this defund the police era with a Legislature that put our community’s safety beneath those who prey upon them, we can’t survive without working together to protect our community members and strive to achieve the highest goals of policing.
General Eisenhower, despite all the challenges and differences, built a coalition of U.S., British, French and Canadian forces. When interviewed after the war, he stated, "I could never face a body of offices without emphasizing one word — teamwork." This is a quality found in Sheriff Snaza. It is a quality that makes him the one true choice for sheriff. I am proud to support Sheriff Snaza. Not just as a member of law enforcement, but as a husband, father and patriotic American. Now is not the time for half measures. We face daunting challenges. Leadership is paramount to our collected efforts. Sheriff Snaza has endeavored to build a coalition of law enforcement in Lewis County. There is more work to do, and he’s not slowing down.
This, however, has been overshadowed by attacks from his opponent who is focused on optics and slander rather than actions.
His opponent focuses on IT issues and Facebook, while Snaza faces real issues affecting our communities head-on. While our communities endure record crime, our law enforcement collectively struggles to address after devastating legislation. Snaza actively works from the street to the Legislature to treat the legislative wound, impacting communities directly. Our sheriff’s opponent engages in political theater and hyperbole when there's real work to do. Our sheriff stood by us during COVID, never abandoning his commitment to our people who feel "Safer with Snaza." Safer knowing our sheriff holds criminals accountable. Safer that our sheriff wasn't closing businesses during COVID, recognizing all were essential. Safer knowing Snaza has never abandoned his oath to serve and protect our home. Snaza's opponent is a good narcotics officer. He should stay there.
Our sheriff had our backs when the chips were down. I have never seen a sheriff that actively works the road, takes calls, traffic stops and runs the office, leading from the front. This is a rare breed of leader.
In the military, I was told the best compliment any commander could ever hope to receive is "I'll follow you anywhere." I’ll proudly serve alongside Sheriff Snaza. No matter the challenge. I will follow him anywhere.
Roger Morningstar
Morton chief of police
