I love the outdoors, especially fishing. I taught my son to fish when he was just a little boy.

I grew up in the Mount Baker Foothills, where I went to Harmony Elementary, Mount Baker Junior High and Mount Baker Senior High. I went on to Western Washington University, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology.

Both my parents worked in service to our community, as does my brother currently. My mother taught school for 35 years, and my father spent his career working for the Whatcom County Parks Department. My brother is a Captain with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Police. I was raised with a heart for public service.

I have been married to my beautiful wife, Lara, for 20 years. We have two fantastic kids: Alyssa attends Whatcom Community College, where she has applied for the nursing program; and Derek is a sophomore at my alma mater, Mount Baker High School.

As a 29+ year veteran of the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO), I’ve held every rank within the organization as well as numerous specialty positions. I am well-versed in all department responsibilities and have spent the past 16 years in management and executive roles.

My 53+ years learning the ins and outs of this wonderful place we all call home affords me a unique perspective on our strengths and outstanding features, as well as our opportunities for improvement. No other candidate offers the combination of depth and breadth of experience within the WCSO and extensive knowledge of Whatcom County than I do.

I care about and am deeply invested in the health, safety and vitality of our community and all the people in it. Nothing is more important to me than continuing my service to the residents of Whatcom County. That’s why I’m running for Sheriff.