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“The Vermont Police Association is proud to show its support for the reelection of Chittenden County Sheriff Dan Gamelin and the election of Paul McManus as High Bailiff, and to emphasize the importance of leadership and public safety in our upcoming elections.

These positions carry significant responsibilities requiring more than good intentions. They require a thorough understanding of how a Vermont law enforcement agency operates, a working knowledge of state and federal law, and an ability to collaborate with the rest of the law enforcement community in order to fulfill their commitment to the communities they serve.

Some Chittenden County communities have spent years confronting rising crime, substance use, and quality of life concerns. Residents, business owners, and law enforcement agencies have worked tirelessly in an attempt to restore stability in these communities which have faced these significant public safety challenges, while neighboring communities have managed the resulting spillover effects. We believe now is the time to continue to strengthen these efforts and not fundamentally redefine the mission of one of the county’s principal public safety agencies through another experiment.

Chittenden County Sheriff Dan Gamelin has led the department with professionalism, integrity, and accountability for many years. Under their leadership the Chittenden County Sheriff’s Department has operated with distinction earning the confidence of both the law enforcement community and the communities they serve.

Likewise, Paul McManus has been a respected member of Vermont’s law enforcement community for decades. Their extensive experience, sound judgment, and unwavering dedication to public service makes them an obvious choice to fulfill the responsibilities of High Bailiff. While infrequently called upon, this elected official exists for critical moments when stability, continuity, and public trust are paramount. The importance of the High Bailiff shouldn’t be measured by how often the position is called into action, but by the necessity of having a qualified individual ready when the moment arrives.

These positions are no less important to the integrity of our justice system than the State’s Attorney. The residents of Chittenden County deserve leaders who are prepared from day one to fulfill their responsibilities with competence, experience, and an unwavering commitment to the safety of their communities.

As communities throughout Chittenden County continue working to recover from years of significant public safety challenges many residents are looking for experienced leaders who can build upon years of proven success while remaining focused on protecting the public, enforcing the law, and working collaboratively with local stakeholders and Vermont law enforcement agencies.

For these reasons, the Vermont Police Association strongly supports the reelection of Sheriff Gremlin as Chittenden County Sheriff and Paul McManus for High Bailiff and encourages the residents of Chittenden County to vote for candidates who will ensure a safer Chittenden County.”