Citizens of Harnett County:

It is a distinct honor to announce my candidacy for the office of Harnett County Sheriff.  For me, it was an honor and a privilege to serve the citizens of Harnett County in the Sheriff’s Office from 1981-2003.  Because of my years of experience and my dedication to serving this county, I am confident I will make the citizens of Harnett County a sheriff they will be proud of.

I pledge to the citizens of Harnett that as your sheriff I will build on the foundation that currently exists in the Harnett County Sheriff’s Office to take the department to a higher level of performance.

I will be honest and trustworthy in all endeavors. I will be a sheriff who can admit when things go wrong and then put in place policies and procedures to see that those mistakes aren’t made again.  I will work to anticipate problems before they occur, establishing procedures to keep innocent citizens from being put in harm’s way.

As your sheriff, I will ensure that the law is applied equally to all citizens.  I will establish and enforce standards for all employees.  I will not tolerate brutal or inhumane treatment of others by employees of the sheriff’s department.  And I will see that all employees receive the training and supervision needed to provide excellent service for all citizens.

As sheriff, I will focus not only on the war on drugs but on all crimes, especially property crimes including the burglaries of homes and businesses.  Because of my experience with preparing a budget and staying within budgeted allocations, I will be a sheriff that taxpayers can trust to manage their money wisely.

Over the years, I have demonstrated my leadership skills and my willingness to serve this county.  Now, with your help and support, I hope to use that record and those skills to win the Office of Sheriff in 2006.  I ask for your help.  And I promise that if elected I will work hard for all the citizens of this great county.

Sincerely yours,

Steve M. West