Sutter County sheriff’s candidates: Qualifications, homelessness, violent crime

Editor’s Note: This is one in a series of articles featuring responses by candidates. This format allows voters to compare candidates more closely on selected questions.

This installment features candidates for Sutter County sheriff – Jeff Pierce, Dennis Hauck and Brandon Barnes.

Questions were sent and returned by email. Candidates were given word limits for their answers.

1. (50-word limit) Please tell us a little about yourself – you are free to list any credentials or background you feel is relevant.

Barnes: I am a long time Sutter County resident and live in Live Oak with Jennifer and our children. I hold the position of Captain and Jail Commander, and former SWAT Commander and Chief of Investigations. I am a graduate of both the F.B.I National Academy and Command College.

Pierce: Eight years as Sutter County undersheriff; led efforts to upgrade technology, including computer, radio communications, and 911 system. Forty years law enforcement experience, 36 at the Sheriff’s Office. Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Sac State; graduated from National F.B.I. Academy. I also farmed in the community for 30 years.

Hauck: A lifelong Yuba-sutter resident, I currently serve as Sergeant for the Yuba City Police Department. A 25-year law enforcement veteran, I feel that our Sheriff’s Department needs change from the outside and I feel that I can bring the greatest amount of positive change to make our community safer.

2. (50-word limit) Homelessness is identified by many residents as one of the top problems for Yubasutter. What’s the sheriff’s office role in addressing the issues associated with homelessness?

Pierce: We need more enforcement and more services. The sher- Calendar ............ Classifieds ......... Comics .............. Crossword ......... Dear Abby .......... Nation ............... Obituaries ..........