TO THE EDITOR Belleavoine for Sheriff
I have known Ted Belleavoine both personally and professionally for over 20 years. Ted and I worked together at the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and he served in a position of trust during my tenure as Sheriff. He has always been trustworthy, professional and ethical and has always exhibited a great sense of community. Ted has a passion to bring his knowledge and forward-thinking ideas to lead the men and women of the Sheriff’s Office.
“In addition, the citizens have lost a vital investigative initiative which began during my term in office. The Criminal Bureau of Investigation was allowed to be dissolved.” — Sheriff David Zylak
During the past 12 years, the Sheriff’s Office has experienced a turnover of more than 100 officers and several years of up to 20 to 25 deputy vacancies. The detention center has similarly experienced high turnovers and vacancies. In addition, the citizens have lost a vital investigative initiative which began during my term in office. The Criminal Bureau of Investigation was allowed to be dissolved. This initiative brought together investigators from the St. Mary’s County Sheriff’s Office and Maryland State Police to work in unison, under one roof, to share information and solve crimes. It was a sad day when the citizens lost this initiative.
Ted Belleavoine has the experience, leadership ability and dedication to the community to be the next Sheriff of St. Mary’s County. This is why I am endorsing Ted and urge you to vote for Ted Belleavoine on November 6th.
David D. Zylak, Leonardtown
Former Sheriff of St. Mary’s County