Editor, Smithfield Times

I worked for Sheriff Marshall for nearly nine years after serving over 20 years in the military, and I would still be beside him today if a family emergency hadn’t forced my relocation.

I have come to know many leaders, good and bad, throughout the years and Mark Marshall is at the top of the list. After leaving the Isle of Wight Sheriff’s Office, I worked for a much larger agency in Florida that couldn’t compare with the dedicated men and women under Mark’s leadership.

Sheriff Marshall gets more efficiency and better quality work from his deputies than any other department I’ve ever worked for.

Nearly every employee working for Sheriff Marshall has multiple duties to ensure that the citizens of Isle of Wight are getting the biggest bang for their buck. My first task when Sheriff Marshall took office was to create as many opportunities as possible for deputies to visit each school within the county, which led to the installation of a deputy workstation at every school without a permanently assigned SRO. My school visitation motto became, “Every School, Every Day,” which is still a priority today, keeping students and staff safe.

Sheriff Marshall is a proven professional with an impressive resume. He has chosen to stay home and serve his community when I know his credentials and experience could take him to a higher paying, less demanding position. It’s never been about taking the easy road with Mark; it’s always been about integrity, loyalty and professionalism.

The citizens of Isle of Wight County have a true gift serving them. Re-elect Sheriff Marshall on Nov. 3.

Bob Fox
Gainesville, Fla.