If I have an issue, be it criminal or code compliance or any of a million law enforcement issues, I want to discuss it with someone who listens.

I don’t want a recorded message with a push-button slate telling me that I have a few seconds to state “just the facts!”

Nor do I only want someone in the flesh who only has a pulse and is awake as I tell my personal tale of woe. I want someone who obviously hears me, who understands the words I stutter excitedly, who indicates understanding and comprehension, someone who shows intellectual and cultural experiences, who smiles and nods at the appropriate moments in my story.

Then I know the deputy understands me; regardless of whether I’m in the right or wrong, I can be confident we’re on the same page.

That’s the beginning of Community Oriented Policing–not snapping cuffs on me with a “Book him, Dano!” command and a “Watch your head!” as they slip me into the back of a waiting patrol car–not that I deserve such treatment.

I want a fellow human being– fallible though he/she may be–to help me when I need it.

I want a friendly, knowledgeable and professional response to my queries and needs. No stonewalling; no frowns, 1,000- yard stares or raised eyebrows in disbelief as I wander through my verbal quest for assistance: Approachable, helpful assistance and/or advice.

This sort of response doesn’t cost us citizens more by way of taxes–or the sheriff’s department budget. We pay for law enforcement’s service as well as its protection from Bad Guys, so let’s demand it 24/7!

Geoff Dean personifies all the good traits and characteristics of the friendly, helpful “beat cop” of years gone by. I’m going to vote for him for sheriff on June 8.

He will ensure that all of the department’s officers follow his leadership of approachable and professional service to us county residents. Cmdr. Dean has already won the minds and hearts of the rank and file deputies and firefighters of Ventura County.

He’ll make a fine sheriff!
Forrest Frields
Thousand Oaks