Letter to the Editor: Says McLaughlin will continue to lead as sheriff

I offer my full support for Joe McLaughlin Jr., candidate for New Kent County Sheriff.

I have worked with Joe and the sheriff’s office for over 20 years and can speak directly about his experience, dedication, and commitment, not only to the sheriff’s office, but to the citizens of this county.

I was involved in a bad accident last October while on duty and Joe was the first supervisor to arrive on scene and assist me. Not only did he follow the squad to the hospital, he remained there comforting my mother, two teenage daughters, and other family members while I was in surgery. Joe took care of all the necessary paperwork, spent three days at the hospital with me, arranged for help to take me home, assisted with getting me in my house, and had set up meals to be delivered by the sheriff’s department personnel and other volunteers in the county for me and my family for two weeks.

Joe and retiring Sheriff F.W. “Wakie” Howard Jr. are the two that have made the department what it is today by their great leadership, commitment, and dedication to the citizens. Joe has the knowledge, leadership, and will continue to lead New Kent in the right direction. Over half of the deputies that are employed here have been with the department for 10-20 years and that shows what a great department we work for.

Joe is the man to step in and take over when the Honorable Sheriff Howard steps down for his much-deserved retirement. I ask you to join me on Nov. 3 and support Joe McLaughlin for Sheriff so we can continue to protect and serve the fine citizens of New Kent

Chris Hamlet
New Kent