SHERIFF: That was an endorsement

I read Sheriff Wolfinger’s April 16th Research and Opinion column with great interest, thinking I’d gain some insight on the Sheriff’s replacement.

In the very first paragraph the Sheriff states: “I don’t believe I should tell you who to vote for.”

Then he proceeds to do exactly that by writing a very positive review of Captain Edmondson and not so subtly trashing the other three candidates.

He accuses Mr. Grimm of “posting online videos spreading fake news regarding Covid response.”

He then accuses Bob Norris of either “voter or tax fraud.”

He cites Mr. Whitehead’s “associations with organizations of questionable reputation.”

I had hoped the Sheriff would have offered an objective analysis. Clearly that was not his intention. If he wanted to endorse Captain Edmondson then have the courage to do so.

What he wrote was an embarrassing slanted hit piece citing no actual evidence. Accusing Norris of the crime of fraud is libelous on its face. If he’d had evidence rather than rumor he should have taken his case to the D.A. That, Sheriff, is how the justice system should work.

I’d suggest voters should contact each candidate and make their own decision.

I’ve never met the Sheriff nor have I been arrested by his office so I have no grudge here.

What I resent is the Sheriff using the color of his office to influence the election through the use of negative innuendo. We deserve better.

I am a former LA City Attorney employee.

FRANK MARINO

Hayden