Pride in the Sheriff’s Department

Re “Deputy Accused of Racial Profiling,” Jan. 24.

Recently, the Moorpark Police Department, manned by the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department, has come under fire with allegations of racial profiling. I do not want to make light of these allegations. I have every confidence that Sheriff Bob Brooks will investigate these charges and immediately rectify any problems that may surface. However, I do feel that when the department is part of something positive in the community, then that story should be told as well.

Sometimes we adults take for granted the power and abilities of youth. They have the ability to warm the hearts of those around them and brighten the worst of days. That power was definitely evident Jan. 25 at the fifth-grade DARE [Drug Awareness Resistance Education] graduations for Arroyo West Elementary School in Moorpark. Deputy Jeff Manory introduced the students and began a description of the DARE program and his involvement with it. Soon, Manory was describing how these students touched his heart in a profound way, and his emotions surfaced. When he finished, kids and parents gave a heartfelt standing ovation.

Civilians often do not understand the emotions a law enforcement officer goes through. Most situations an officer faces will be negative, whether issuing a ticket to a disgruntled speeder or notifying parents that their child has been in an accident. These situations and emotions will take their toll on any human being.

I am incredibly proud of the men and women who serve the Ventura County Sheriff’s Department; we should all be thankful that they put on the uniform every day.

JUDY MIKELS

Ventura County Supervisor

Simi Valley