Deputy Seeks Policy Waiver to Run for Sheriff’s Job

Capt. Jim Roache has formally asked his boss, Sheriff John Duffy, to waive a department policy that prohibits staffers from running against an incumbent for the sheriff’s post.

“The policy mandates resignation as the price for exercising a constitutional right to speak your mind and better serve the interests of the public,” Roache said in a letter to Duffy.

In an interview Monday night, Roache added that, if Duffy refuses to waive the policy restriction, “I would reluctantly be prepared to go to court” to see it overturned.

Asked to comment further, Roache, an 18-year veteran of the Sheriff’s Department who now works as a supervisor in the Lemon Grove station, said: “I would frankly not like to talk at this point. I’d rather have the letter speak for itself and see what happens.”

Duffy could not be reached for comment Monday.

The one-page letter, dated Friday, was a formal request that Duffy, who has said he plans to seek reelection next year, set aside the policy.

In the letter, saying “we both love the department and want to insure that the citizens of San Diego County receive quality law enforcement protection,” Roache asks Duffy to allow Roache to continue his career with the Sheriff’s Department while also mounting a campaign to unseat his boss.

“Simply put,” the letter said, “this policy stifles effective airing of the crucial issues which face the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department and the future direction this organization should take.

“Obviously, this policy affords incumbents a singularly secure position to avoid informed, qualified and experienced challengers from within.”

Hints at Allegations

The letter also hinted at the allegations about Duffy’s performance during the last year, particularly those of jailhouse abuse and poor leadership.

“It is being said that the time for change within the San Diego Sheriff’s Department has come,” Roache’s letter said. “The only solution is for a new generation of leadership from within the department to step forward.

“The problems within the department have seriously eroded the public image of the many fine sheriff’s employees who provide outstanding public service and risk their lives daily for our citizens.”

The letter concluded: “I urge you to do what is right and suspend the policy.”

Candidates Lining Up

Roache is one of two veteran police officials who are considering a run for sheriff next year.

Vince Jimno, police chief of Escondido, said last week that he was “real close” to announcing a challenge against Duffy. Citing 12 years as a California police chief--in Escondido, Carlsbad and Pinole--he said he would bring a wealth of leadership experience to the sheriff’s job.

This summer, former San Diego Police Chief Ray Hoobler announced that he will file for the sheriff’s race. Like Jimno, Hoobler has criticized Duffy for purported mismanagement and for leaving the sheriff’s office unattended for long periods.