Dear Editor,

I know most of you have received your ballots by now and many of you have already voted. If you haven’t, first and foremost, please vote. Every election is an important election and your input is needed. I want to address specifically those people who are still researching for whom to vote.

I feel this election is very important for the direction of the Walla Walla Sheriff’s Office (WWSO) and for the citizens of Walla Walla County. I’ve been in law enforcement for over 35 years. I was a law enforcement officer for 30 years and the remainder in support positions. While with the WWSO, I’ve seen the positive direction the office has been going these last 3 ½ years. I foresee continued development of the WWSO as a professional law enforcement agency who continues to live up to their core values: Honor, Integrity, Loyalty, Courage, Commitment, Duty & Fairness.

I have no doubt that Mark Crider is the one to continue to lead this agency in that direction. Upon interviewing for the position of Undersheriff, Mark’s honor, integrity, loyalty, courage, commitment, duty and fairness stood out. One example of his dedication regarded a wounded warrior who wished to continue to serve his country by becoming an FBI agent.

Justin Slaby lost his hand in pre-deployment training for his fourth tour as a US Army Ranger. Justin was let go from the FBI academy and a lawsuit was brought against the FBI to reinstate Justin. Special Agent Mark Crider had been involved in Justin’s evaluation of skills and abilities to be an FBI agent, which Justin passed with flying colors. When Mark was to be deposed for the case, his supervisor encouraged him to lie about Justin’s performance. Mark’s integrity would not allow him to do this. He supported Justin and told the truth, at personal risk to Mark’s own career. (For more information, search “Mark Crider, FBI” on the internet.) This, in addition to Mark’s experience as a Special Agent for 22 years and a navy veteran of 10 years, gives insight into his numerous qualifications to be leader of the WWSO but also of how he lives the core values the WWSO adheres to.

No other candidate is as well qualified to take on this important position. Please join with me in voting for Mark Crider for Sheriff.

Ron Varner

Crime Analyst, WWSO

Walla Walla