To the editor:

I would like to express my appreciation to Sheriff Mike Balmer for his years of service and dedication to the citizens of Jasper County. Sheriff Balmer played a large role in getting my career started. He gave me the opportunity to serve as a Jasper County Sheriff’s Reserve Deputy and displayed the professionalism I strove to achieve.

When I learned of Sheriff Mike Balmer’s retirement there was no question that Chief Deputy John Halferty is the most qualified to be the next Sheriff. I’ve had the privilege to work with John over the past 20 years; six of those years with the Newton Police Department and last 14 working cooperatively at the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office.