As you may have heard, Sheriff Bob Bezotte has announced he will not seek a fourth term as Livingston County Sheriff. I wish to thank him for his service and the support he has given me over the years as well as the confidence he had in me 11 years ago when he appointed me Undersheriff.
Since the Sheriff has decided not seek a fourth term, it is with great honor and humility that I am announcing my candidacy for the Office of Sheriff. Since the first day I walked through the doors of the Sheriff’s Office as a young Corrections Deputy over 25 years ago, I have felt the responsibility to serve with integrity and give back to the community that overwhelmingly supports Law Enforcement. I feel I have achieved both and I am ready for the next chapter in my public servant career.
Having served in every rank within the Sheriff’s Office, currently as Undersheriff, provides me with a unique perspective on the office and its entire operation.
Today’s Law Enforcement community faces many challenges; criminals’ are more sophisticated than ever and technology is outpacing our ability to keep up with this constantly changing environment. The hiring and retention of great people, funding, training, as well as public opinion and trust are but a few more challenges we face. I come before you today to assure you that I am ready to tackle these challenges, and turn them into opportunities.
After 25 years of service and having been involved in a myriad of community events and nonprofit organizations, I feel I have a good understanding of the desires of the people of Livingston County and what they expect from their Sheriff. I am not big on campaign promises, but I will promise you this; what you have seen for the last 25 years is what you will continue to see going forward. I will not be the candidate or the elected official you only see at election time. I will continue to be open, honest and accessible.
I look forward to the next several months on the campaign trail and I will continue to acknowledge my responsibility and privilege of serving with integrity and giving back to this great community we call home!
Michael J. Murphy
Candidate for Livingston County Sheriff.