Ardmoreite Carter County Sheriff's Q&A: DJ Long

Ardmoreite

Why are you the best candidate for the position of sheriff?

I believe I am the best candidate for Carter County Sheriff because of my law enforcement experience, leadership abilities, business and management skills. I have an old-fashioned work ethic, integrity and honesty. I was taught at a very young age that ethics and your word define who you are and that is something I carry with me to this day. I have a sense of duty and I am a citizen. I firmly believe that justice and fairness apply to everyone. I will strive daily to uphold the laws and protect the constitutional rights afforded to the citizens of Carter County and the State of Oklahoma. I believe that with these qualities and abilities we can make the Carter County Sheriff's Office the best in the state. I will address the issues currently plaguing the office and provide solutions to those issues.

Describe your experience in law enforcement.

My grandfather was a McLennan County Sheriff's Deputy for 34 years. Because of my respect for him and his character, I was keen to learn what he considered the greatest prerequisite for being a man of the law; the Constitution of the United States. I joined the Dallas County Sheriff's Office in 1988 and was a dedicated student. Unfortunately, the more I learned about our criminal justice system, the more discouraged I became. So I left law enforcement for 20 years. During this time, I developed the wisdom that allows me to be equally passionate without being overwhelmed by frustration. I joined the Ardmore Police Department in 2012, where I served as an active officer and held numerous roles. I wrote policies and procedures at both of these agencies. For a year, I was a committed member of the Bryan County Sheriff's Office in Oklahoma as a reserve deputy.

What steps would you take to reduce crime rates in our county?

Establish the Sheriff's Office as a legitimate law enforcement agency with up-to-date policies and procedures and encouraging a proactive approach to circumventing crime. Rebuilding our sub-reservist program. Work closely with all county agencies on behalf of citizens. Conduct regular intelligence meetings not only with our county agencies, but also with sheriff's offices in surrounding counties. Engage with citizens to encourage community involvement. The citizens of the county understand that a deputy cannot be everywhere at once and that combating criminal activity requires everyone's participation. There are a number of technologies available today that are essential to successfully solving the problems of our time. These technologies must of course be selected based on their profitability and financing. Many of these are available through specific grants. Additionally, training our members to be efficient and well-rounded.

What changes, if any, would you like to implement in your first 100 days in office?

Foster a positive atmosphere that invigorates individual enthusiasm for work. Ensure that each member understands their role and responsibilities. Evaluate each team member to ensure their current position is aligned with their long-term goals. Review and implement policies that are current with current statutes and appropriate protocol. Meet the equipment needs of the department and individual members.

Describe your approach to training. How would you ensure that officers are well prepared for their roles?

My approach to training is above all based on civics. As a peace officer, our mission is to enforce the law, protect people's individual liberties, and deter criminal activity, all for the greater good of the community. When applying the law, common sense and logical reasoning must be used. Good training must have this philosophy at its core. I have already begun arranging for instructors from OHP, OSBI, APD and others to come and provide training on a variety of topics. I met with the heads of each agency in the county and discussed that the sheriff's office would host these trainings and I encourage them to send their people. This will foster relationships and better outcomes for everyone involved. Frequent, quality training is an absolute.