Election day is coming up soon, and the citizens of Lewis County will make their decisions for whom they want as their new elected officials.
I know there are two candidates for sheriff that appear to be running a close race. I don't know Gabriel Frase, but I know his father, John, whom I have a great deal of respect for. John is an honest person of integrity, and I have no reason to believe his son is anything less.
But Tracy Murphy I have known since he was a teenager. Tracy is an honest and straightforward man who stands firm on his convictions. He is a man who isn't afraid to confront the problems that have plagued the sheriff's office for many years. He truly cares about the people of Lewis County.
If you keep electing sheriffs from within the department, who have been indoctrinated by the same old policies, you will never see real change.
Tracy has never been under the influence of the sheriff's office and has not been indoctrinated by their continuing failed practices. He is the only one who will address the problems and make the necessary changes to ensure the citizens get the best services possible. He will put the best qualified people in the right positions, not handed down because of friendships or "boot licking."
The sheriff's office will become completely transparent to the citizens for the first time.
You all deserve that transparency from your elected officials.
Investigations will be handled by well-trained, competent detectives. I know Tracy well enough to know that he will be personally involved in managing all death investigations. And, yes, a sheriff can and should be involved. Employees under Tracy will be held to a higher standard and will be held accountable for their actions and job performances.
Tracy will confront the drug problems that have always been prevalent in Lewis County, and he has the expertise to make a big difference in that area as well.
If you really want change and much needed improvement, Tracy Murphy is the man who will get it done.
Jerry C. Berry
Atlanta, Texas
