MOUNT VERNON — The retirement of Knox County Sheriff David Shaffer opens the door to three new candidates. All three have more than 20 years of law enforcement experience.
Deputy Wayne Noggle is retired from the sheriff’s office and serves with the Deputy Reserve Unit. Capt. William Shaffer is the Knox County Jail administrator. Chief Daniel J. Weckesser has led the Danville Police Department for eight years.
All three cite staff retention and recruitment and drugs and mental health as significant issues facing the Knox County Sheriff’s Office.
Meet the Candidates: Knox County Republican Primary Q&A
Knox Pages will host a candidate Q&A on Feb. 20 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. at The Woodward Opera House. The evening features the county treasurer’s race as well as the sheriff and county commissioner races. The event, sponsored by Griffin Insurance, is free, but an RSVP is appreciated. You can also click here to submit a question to the candidates.
Noggle, Shaffer, and Weckesser responded to a Knox Pages questionnaire asking for more details about their candidacy. Their answers are printed below.
Wayne Noggle
Occupation: Retired from the Knox County Sheriff’s Office, currently serving on the Knox County Deputy Reserve Unit; Sales Manager at Holmes Rental and Sales
Education: High School diploma, Ohio Peace Office Certification in Law Enforcement, Ohio Peace Officer Certification in Corrections
Qualifications for office: I have worked 33-plus years with the Knox County Sheriff’s Office, including in the Jail Division, in a Patrol contract Village of Gambier, the Patrol Division on all 3 shifts, a Supervisor in the Patrol Division on the 4p-Midnight, and as the Patrol Day Shift Supervisor. I also was the lead associate for the FOP Union for approximately 15 years. I also worked as the fleet maintenance administrator for a few years.
Why are you running for office?
I am running because I know that with my years of service and experience in both the Corrections and Patrol fields, along with my experience in employee matters as a Supervisor and a Union Representative, I have what is needed to get the Sheriff’s Office to proactive instead of reactive law enforcement.
What are the three most significant issues facing the county?
1. Recruiting and retaining more quality deputies
2. Addressing the drug and mental health issues in Knox County
3. Growth issues coming to Knox County due to the influx of industry being built up in the counties surrounding Knox County, which will increase population and the criminal presence in our county.
What will you do to address them?
1. I will start a recruiting program within our schools by reintroducing the Cadet program and utilizing our resource officers to spearhead these programs. I will also start having a representative attend job fairs, including the Ohio Army National Guards job fair for our service members leaving their military service and looking to find quality jobs.
2. I will start working on programs that help people addicted to drugs find their way to understanding that they need to choose to make a choice to stop using, and then we can get them to programs that keep them on the path to staying drug-free. Drug use also has a big impact on mental health issues, and these can also be addressed in their healing process. Also helping the families of the users to understand why they use and how they can help in their loved one’s healing process.
3. I will start a group of people to look into a 5-year plan for the Sheriff’s Office and the areas we need to grow in as a county moving into the future. I will start a Citizens Patrol Group where Knox County citizens can be properly vetted and then enter into a program where I will partner with our local college to provide the training to have the citizens be able to help take a partnership with the Sheriff’s Office in fighting crime. I will implement a camera program where citizens can register with the Sheriff’s Office that they have security cameras so when crime occurs in their area, the Sheriff’s Office will be able to request recorded security footage from their system; this will greatly reduce the amount of leg work deputies and detectives would have to put in to otherwise collect this information.
William Shaffer
Occupation: Captain/Jail Administrator at the Knox County Sheriff’s Office
Education: Mount Vernon High School graduate, Associates Degree, Basic Ohio Peace Officer, Defensive Tactics Instructor, Law Enforcement and Corrections Instructor, First Line supervisor, Jail Administrator
Qualifications for office:
•All requirements according of the Ohio Revised Code 311.01 are satisfied.
•20 years of continuous service at the Knox County Sheriff’s Office
•Buckeye State Sheriff’s Association (BSSA)-Certified Law Enforcement Manager
•BSSA Legislative Committee member
•BSSA Community Corrections Committee member
•Knox County Safety Council Steering Committee
•Local Emergency Planning Committee
•15 years supervisory experience
•15 years SWAT team member
•12 years as FOP union representative
•Collective Bargaining representative 2009, 2012, 2018
•Deputy of Year 2012 and 2018
•Endorsements: Knox County Republican Central Committee, Ohio Sen. Andrew Brenner (R) District 19, Ohio House Rep. Darrell Kick (R) District 98, Knox County Prosecutor Chip McConville, Mount Vernon City Law Director Rob Broeren, Knox County Sheriff David Shaffer
Why are you running for office?
I am determined to secure the position of Knox County sheriff with an unwavering commitment to safeguarding and serving the citizens of Knox County. My profound passion for law enforcement and corrections has been the driving force behind my extensive 20-year dedication to public service. Throughout my career, I have held pivotal supervisory roles such as Sergeant, Lieutenant, and Captain, accumulating invaluable experience that has equipped me to effectively address the intricate challenges confronting law enforcement agencies. Notably, I have demonstrated my unyielding commitment to public safety through 15 years of service on the SWAT team, where I perfected my skills in handling high-pressure situations and ensuring the well-being of both officers and the community.
In addition to my operational experience, I have actively participated in contract negotiations with the union, demonstrating my proficiency in fostering positive relations and collaboration within the law enforcement community. My involvement in planning, handling, and managing a multi-million-dollar budget has provided me with a keen understanding of the financial aspects crucial to the effective functioning of law enforcement agencies. I am committed to ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently to address the needs of the community while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
As a candidate for Knox County sheriff, my vision extends beyond the present, focusing on sustainable community growth through a foundation of safety. I aim to continue the outstanding leadership of the past while embracing transparency and technology. I firmly support the Second Amendment, recognizing the constitutional right of law-abiding citizens to keep and bear arms. Upholding this fundamental right is essential to preserving individual freedoms and ensuring the continued strength of our democratic society. By incorporating modern technologies and fostering open communication, I believe we can build a stronger, more responsive law enforcement system that meets the evolving needs of our community.
Lastly, my connection to Knox County runs deep, spanning four generations and shaping my sense of identity. Having my family here, the community has been a constant backdrop to all the stages of my life. Lifelong friendships and a shared history tie me to this place, creating a network of support and camaraderie. Contributing to Knox County’s progress is not just a duty but also a commitment to its ongoing development. The pride I feel for my origin is a driving force behind my efforts to enhance the community, ensuring its continued growth and resilience.
What are the three most significant issues facing the county?
Certainly, when examining the challenges faced by law enforcement in rural counties in Ohio, it’s crucial to consider the mental health aspects for both officers and the communities they serve. In Knox County, three significant issues that warrant attention are limited resources, drug addiction, and trust within the community.
1. Limited Resources: Despite the county government’s generosity, Knox County continues to grapple with challenges stemming from its size, particularly in the allocation of limited resources. The expansive nature of the county impacts its ability to dedicate sufficient funds for law enforcement agencies. This not only hampers their capability to invest in essential equipment, technology, and officer training but also creates difficulties in recruiting and retaining personnel. Adequate resources play a crucial role in maintaining public safety, improving law enforcement effectiveness, and creating a favorable environment for attracting and keeping skilled individuals.
2. Drug Addiction and Mental Health Response: The issue of drug addiction is a pressing concern in Knox County, with the prevalence of substance abuse, particularly in the form of the opioid epidemic. Addressing drug addiction and mental health is essential for the well-being of individuals within the community. Law enforcement and first responders must have options and resources to effectively respond to assist people in crisis
3. Law Enforcement training, recruitment, retention, and community trust: Building and maintaining trust between the community and law enforcement is pivotal for effective policing. Trust issues may arise due to various factors, including past incidents, perceptions of bias, or a lack of transparency. Fostering open communication, community engagement, and implementing community policing strategies are crucial steps to rebuild and strengthen the trust between law enforcement and the residents of Knox County.
What will you do to address them?
To tackle the pressing challenges of scarce resources, drug addiction, and community trust in Knox County, it is imperative to adopt a comprehensive and cooperative strategy. Collaboration with local government representatives and community leaders to champion increased resources for law enforcement agencies is imperative.
1. Adequate resources play a crucial role in safeguarding public safety and the welfare of officers. Actively continue to pursue grants that can offer supplementary financial backing for law enforcement initiatives, training programs, and equipment enhancements. Foster partnerships with local businesses and community organizations to secure additional funding through collaborative ventures.
2. Utilize community-based drug prevention and mental health programs that focus on education, awareness, and early intervention. Work with schools, community centers, and healthcare providers to address the root causes of drug addiction. Additionally, increasing awareness of the medication-assisted treatment that is currently in the jail to assist addiction prior to release. The individual can then move on to community-based programming after release, which can increase the chance of maintaining sobriety.
3. Use data-driven approaches to identify trends and allocate resources effectively, such as implementing a computerized mapping system that reflects current trends and “hotspots” within the community. This approach helps allocate resources more productively. Law enforcement agencies can deploy personnel and assets based on the analysis of crime patterns in areas with higher risk, maximizing the impact of limited resources.
Establishing a collaborative task force of inter-agency partnerships that brings together law enforcement, mental health professionals, community leaders, educational institutions and other stakeholders. The goal is to coordinate efforts and address shared concerns, increase public safety, and develop holistic solutions.
To foster safer and more professional interactions with citizens, I will promote and provide enhanced training for deputies. This involves providing personnel with efficient tools, technology, and information to improve their overall performance. Additionally, my commitment extends to increasing community engagement through initiatives like citizens’ academies and various community events. By consistently sharing the daily activities of the sheriff’s office with the public, I strive to build and maintain strong relationships within the community.
In closing, my unwavering dedication to the safety and well-being of our community is at the forefront of my mission. I am deeply committed to upholding the principles of the 2nd Amendment, ensuring the protection of our citizens’ rights while maintaining a strong focus on responsible gun ownership. Embracing community policing as a cornerstone of my approach, I am devoted to fostering positive relationships between law enforcement and residents through open communication, active engagement, and collaborative initiatives. Transparency to the community is not just a promise but a fundamental aspect of my leadership philosophy. Together, by prioritizing safety, respecting constitutional rights, and enhancing trust through transparency, we can build a safer and more united Knox County for generations to come. Together, we can create a safer, more secure environment for everyone to thrive. I am eager to serve as your sheriff to make this vision a reality.
Daniel J. Weckesser
Occupation: Danville Police Chief and Businessman
Education: COTC Police Academy, some college courses, and multiple specialized law enforcement training courses. Business courses. I have 59 years of life experience that have prepared me for this position. I have built two businesses from the ground up with very little capital to start with that are still in operation today; I know how to manage a business and employees.
Qualifications for office: Owned and operated two successful businesses for over 35 years. Police Academy, 21 years in law enforcement, 8 years as chief. I hold numerous law enforcement qualifications. I have successfully investigated multiple misdemeanors and felony cases. I have learned how to accomplish a lot with a very small budget. I’m the only candidate that has run a department. I have a proven track record of accomplishments. What I say I’m going to do, I will do.
Why Are You Running for Office?
•I want to help the citizens of Knox County, State of Ohio, and our Great Country.
•To Serve and Protect!! I believe we need strong men and women to stand up for our citizens and run for office. It is time to vote out career politicians and vote in citizens that will work for the people.
•My family and friends live here, and I want to make sure our community is safe.
What are the three most significant issues facing the county?
1. Law Enforcement: Drugs, pedophiles targeting our children on social media platforms, scams, telecommunication fraud, financial and physical crimes against our elderly and handicapped population.
I plan on delivering a relentless campaign of enforcement on the illegal drug problem. By adding more Dual-Purpose K-9 and collaborating with other departments to combat this ongoing problem. I plan on going after the suppliers. I plan on utilizing my current collaboration with the United States Secret Service, Ohio Crimes against Children, and Homeland Security to go after the criminal elements that are targeting our citizens countywide.
2. Mental Health: I plan on finding grants and sponsors to help with the financial aspects of the mental health problem, along with doing extensive research on finding resources and programs that will assist individuals with mental health problems.
3. Population and Fiscal Responsibility: With the population growth that is expected in the next few years, the demand for the sheriff’s department and law enforcement will increase as well. The sheriff will need to find ways to support the sheriff’s office other than taxing the citizens more. I have a plan for this.