March 19, 2024

Marshall Co. detective endorses Hoffman

To the editor:

When I began my law enforcement career at the Marshall County Sheriff’s Office several years ago I remember the first time I met Steve Hoffman.  I was in the Administrative Office completing final employment forms when I notice what I thought was a building and grounds worker due to the worn and stained clothing.  Little did I know at the time this was my first lesson of many from one of my Field Training Officers that was currently assigned to the Mid Iowa Drug Task Force.

Several weeks later, I was formally introduced to my Field Training Officer, Deputy Sheriff Steve Hoffman.  I couldn’t have been more wrong with my first impression of Steve who was now in a freshly pressed Deputy Sheriff’s uniform.

I had the opportunity to continue working with Steve in the Patrol Division for several years as our shifts would overlap.  At times I almost thought we worked the same shift as Steve was not an officer that would end his shift in his driveway or go off duty at the exact minute.  Steve is an officer that would stay beyond his shift to complete assignments, investigations, assist fellow officers, a stranded motorist, or to have a cup of coffee just to stay in touch with not only officers but area business.

Steve has also volunteered for Marshall County Sheriff’s Office Senior Citizens program where Steve would meet with participating senior citizens in various rural communities to listen to their concerns and check on their well-being.  This pro-active approach was a way for Steve to ensure needs of citizens were met.

Over the years I have learned several professional and personal lessons from Steve that have helped me advance my own law enforcement career. Steve has taught me public service is not just a job, it is truly a privilege.  Steve’s integrity is what law enforcement stands for as he treats everyone in a fair manner with common sense principles.

Steve has devoted much of his life to public service; he has continued to advance his career through leadership skills as an administrator and education to ensure he can provide the best service to citizens that he possibly can.

I ask that the citizens of Jasper County not to judge Steve Hoffman before allowing him the opportunity to share his ideas and values to lead an agency that serves and represents the citizens of your County.  A Sheriff must have the ability to lead with integrity, make sound decisions, and be fiscally responsible through prosperous and lean times.

I thank you for your time and wish all citizens well.  Nov. 6, vote Steve Hoffman as Sheriff of Jasper County.

Joel Phillips

Detective Sergeant

Marshall County Sheriff’s Office