Former deputy favors Balch for sheriff

To The Eagle:

I had the opportunity to get to work with Detective Mike Balch for 11 years. During that time I got to know Mike personally as well as professionally.

As a person, Mike is truly devoted to his family. Mike’s love and devotion to Darlene, Christopher and Jonathan was unquestioned and unequalled. Mike was also devoted to his church family as well. While I did not attend the same church, I knew Mike was either playing music, teaching Sunday school, or serving on a board.

Professionally, Mike was one of my training officers. I learned several interview and interrogation skills by watching Mike. Mike has an uncanny ability to switch gears from interviewing a victim of an assault to interrogating the suspect. Mike always treated a victim with respect and compassion which only rivaled his passion to catch the bad guy. I watched in awe as Detective Balch was able to gain a complete confession from the suspect by treating him/her with respect.

After 11 years of working alongside Detective Balch, I can describe him by the following traits: Dedication, compassion, loyalty and kindness.

While I no longer work with Detective Mike Balch, I know his desire and dedication to the people of Wahkiakum County will help direct his decisions as sheriff. Mike will make decisions based on what he believes is best for the citizens as well as his staff. I also believe Mike Balch will lead the office from the front seat of a patrol car and not behind a desk. Which is why I will be voting for Mike Balch as the next sheriff of Wahkiakum County.

Jeff Fithen, Grays River