No Recommendation
With the retirement of Sheriff Paul Pastor, Pierce County is electing its first new sheriff in 20 years. With the exception of a newly-emerged write-in candidate, we are disappointed that we are unable to recommend either of the candidates on the ballot in this race. Neither candidate is progressive, and our research has raised serious concerns about both of them. No one in this race has outlined a plan for reforming the Pierce County Sheriff's Department. Especially following the killing of Manuel Ellis by law enforcement officers, we believe much stronger action is needed to restrict the use of deadly force, increase independent oversight, and redirect funding to community-based alternatives as outlined in the Electeds For Justice platform.
Ed Troyer has served as the high-profile spokesperson for the Pierce County Sheriff's Department for 19 years. In addition to his work with the sheriff's department, Troyer has served as the executive director of CrimeStoppers for 17 years. He has a long track record of defending police violence and has been criticized for his role in the department's lack of transparency and failure to comply with I-940 after Ellis' killing. Troyer says that if he becomes sheriff he will encourage the department to use body cameras and push for hiring more non-white officers.
Lieutenant Cyndie Fajardo is a 32-year veteran of the Pierce County Sheriff's Department who manages the search and rescue program. From 1999 through 2003, Fajardo served as the interim chief for the Steilacoom Public Safety Department, which encompasses police, fire, and emergency medical services. Unfortunately, a drug unit Fajardo supervised was recently disbanded and is under investigation for misconduct, including falsifying records. As a result, the Pierce County Prosecutor’s Office added Fajardo to their “potential impeachment list” of staff who have been found to be dishonest. This list must be shared with defense attorneys because it can undermine the credibility of law enforcement officials involved in cases. In light of the police protests, she says that she too will prioritize recruiting more officers of color.
Also in this race is social worker Janice Bridges, who is running a write-in campaign in support of police reform. She is running to re-envision the role of law enforcement in the community, which includes the expansion of mental health professionals that respond to crisis situations and the creation of a community safety council. While it's too late in the election cycle for Bridges to obtain endorsements, she is likely a much better choice than the current candidates.
Write in Bridges or a candidate of your choice for Pierce County Sheriff.
Pierce County Sheriff
With the retirement of Sheriff Paul Pastor, Pierce County is electing its first new sheriff in 20 years. With the exception of a newly-emerged write-in candidate, we are disappointed that we are unable to recommend either of the candidates on the ballot in this race.