Q&A: Douglas Sheriff Candidate 'Tired of the Good Ole Boy System'

Douglasville resident Todd Johnson is running for Douglas County's sheriff in the 2012 election. If elected, he would replace Sheriff Phil Miller.

Here is his website for more information.

Johnson answered these questions from Patch via e-mail:

Patch: What made you decide to run?

Johnson: I have spent much of my adult life in public safety. And as a taxpayer of Douglas County and a community leader, I have had the opportunity to witness this great county see huge growth. With growth comes change and a greater responsibility for the sheriff‘s office. Therefore, I believe that I am the man ready and able to handle the job of your next sheriff. I believe my vision will lead and establish new polices to bring what is lacking in the sheriff’s office today. I am running for sheriff because I am sick and tired of my voice and the communities’ voice not being heard. I am sick and tired of my tax dollars not being spent correctly. I am sick and tired of selective enforcement based on your color, your gender, and who you may know. I am sick and tired of the “good ole boy” system infecting our sheriff’s office. It's time for a change.

Patch: Tell us something about your family.

Johnson: My wife and I, along with our two daughters, have resided in Douglas County since 1997. Our family is very close and always focuses on the needs of others. My wife is a United States Army veteran. She served during Operation Desert Storm. She currently volunteers with the Georgia State Defense Force, where she serves as an instructor.

Our children have attended Douglas County schools. Our oldest daughter, Domonique, is now attending Savannah State University, where she will finish her bachelor's degree and will go on to serve her country in the United States Army. Breana, our youngest daughter, is a member of the National Honors Society. She continues to maintain high academic standards while working a part-time job.

Patch: Tell us something about your experience.

Johnson: I am an experienced law enforcement officer with more than 17 years working in public safety. I have developed the necessary skills and expertise to serve as your sheriff. I am confident that I can not only enforce the law, but also bring professional, fair and consistent leadership to the sheriff’s office and all of Douglas County's citizens.

During my years of working in law enforcement, I have worked alongside some of the finest officers in the state. I work hard to constantly advance my knowledge and skills by regularly attending law enforcement training classes above and beyond of what is required by law. I have attended a multitude of training courses, some of which include domestic violence, narcotic identification and investigation, DUI investigations, human trafficking, gang investigations and the investigation of juvenile criminal procedures.

Patch: How would things be different for the residents of Douglas County under your leadership? 

Johnson: As sheriff, I would be seen in the community on a routine basis versus currently, where appearances seem to mostly occur when there is a tragedy or a high-profile incident. I will be known as the "peoples’ sheriff." A citizen will not have to go through gatekeepers to meet with me.

Patch: Why should someone vote for you?

Johnson: Because I am qualified to be sheriff and possess the vision, commitment and experience in law enforcement. I will be tough on fighting crime and will enforce the law while protecting the citizens and property of Douglas County.  

Patch: Who should volunteer (for your campaign) and how would you use them?

Johnson: Anyone interested in seeing real change and improvement in the quality of life in Douglas County should sign up. They would be utilized in their area of interest in the many areas under the campaign umbrella that could (include) phone calling, distributing literature and coordinating meet-and-greets in their respective neighborhoods. As 2012 looms closer, stand-outs and phone banks will be critical (areas) that volunteers would be utilized.

Patch: What is your vision for Douglas County?

Johnson: To be recognized as one of the safest areas to live in all of metropolitan Atlanta. This would be accomplished by upholding the law and respecting the people.

Patch: (Give a) message to the residents of Douglas County.

Johnson: There are better and safer days ahead for Douglas County. A more efficient, cost effective and responsive organization will be realized under the leadership of Todd Johnson with the implementation of the “Johnson Agenda."