I am writing this letter in support of the candidacy of William “Bill” King Jr. for York County sheriff.

King’s professional career has well prepared him for taking a leadership role in county law enforcement. He began his career working for the Portland Police Department, moved on to become assistant director of the Maine DEA, and was recruited into federal law enforcement where he worked in various positions including serving as special-agent-in-charge for the Office of Inspector General in the Department of Justice.

His training includes attending the FBI National Academy and the Maine Criminal Justice Academy. He has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of Southern Maine, a master’s degree in management from Troy State University, and has been an instructor at York County Community College, Husson College and the Maine Criminal Justice Academy, the same academy he attended as a rookie police officer.

Fortunately, King decided to return to Maine after his successful career in federal law enforcement and is currently serving as the York County chief deputy. His many years of federal and state service in a wide variety of communities and positions makes him an ideal candidate for sheriff. He has seen what works and what doesn’t, he has held leadership roles and knows what it takes to get things done.

He has testified before Congress, has been interviewed on a national news program and has spoken before countless groups at all levels of government. He is poised, thoughtful and articulate, and not afraid to say what needs to be said, but recognizes the need to be open to varying opinions in a thoughtful and welcoming manner.

Let me close by noting what his current supervisor, Sheriff Maurice Ouellette, says about King: “Bill King has the training and institutional knowledge to effectively lead the sheriff’s office into the future.”

Please join me in voting for William “Bill” King Jr. for York County sheriff in the June Democratic primary.

Ron Michaud, Saco