Dennis Wise for Sheriff

Re: Next Sheriff


and thanks for your post. It's nice to hear directly from a candidate.
good luck to you!

Re: Next Sheriff

Hi Dennis,

Thanks for getting some info out on yourself. Please let me know when you get your website up and I will try to include more info on you in the next article I write about the sheriff's race. Also, how can I get a copy of your book?

Thanks,
A.Leonard
DFS HERALD-BEACH BREEZE

Re: Next Sheriff

Re: Next Sheriff

Hi Dennis,

Thanks for getting some info out on yourself. Please let me know when you get your website up and I will try to include more info on you in the next article I write about the sheriff's race. Also, how can I get a copy of your book?

Thanks,
A.Leonard
DFS HERALD-BEACH BREEZE

Thank you so much for your inquiry about the website along with my book. I will gladly be available at most any time to give you any info you may be interested in and will definitely let you know when the website is up and running. As for my book, you can access my website at www.honoraboveallelse.org. Thank you for your interest and please feel free to contact me at anytime. You can also pick the book up at 'The Book Store' in Defuniak. It may be more convenient for you. It is also availabe at Barnes and Noble and B. Dalton, and can be ordered by all book stores, or through the publisher 'Authorhouse'.

Dennis Wise

Re: Next Sheriff

I have been reading the politically informed on SoWal, and would like to take this opportunity to express why I feel I am the best qualified candidate for the Office of Sheriff.

I have been in law enforcement for 35 yrs., first in Broward Co. and the last five being in Walton Co. My book, "Honor Above All Else...Removing the Veil of Secrecy brings to light a lot of things that I saw and heard (as the public information officer), happening within the Walton Co. Sheriff's Office that endangered the residents of Walton Co., which continued after I left in 2005, along with the lack of leadership and control. This is a prime example of what happens when you have an absent, non caring Sheriff at the helm.

When elected, I intend to implement the following programs and units within the Office of the Sheriff:

Contracting and Licensing Fraud Unit, Street Crime and Gang Intelligence Unit, Citizens on Patrol Unit, Handicapped Volunteer Parking Unit, Tri-County Burglary and Narcotics Unit, Internal Affairs Unit, Crash Review Board, Community Service Aides, Increase Reserve Unit, Citizens Police Academy, Jr. Deputy Program, Bike Patrol Unit and a County Wide Traffic Unit.

Things I intend to accomplish:

Restore the Integrity of the Sheriff's Office
Training for both Road Patrol and Investigators
Animal Control to have special arrest powers pertaining to animal abuse
I will push state lawmakers to add the additional penalties for drugs being sold within 1000 ft. of a school to now include school bus stops.
I will have an open door policy for the residents of Walton Co.
A wheels of excellence type program for our elementary schools
An active and well-informed Public Information Office
Bring the true meaning of "Protect and Serve" back to the Sheriff's Office.
(NONE OF THE ABOVE IS CURRENTLY BEING DONE AT THE WALTON CO. SHERIFF'S OFFICE). Implementing the above will be of minimal cost, as most of the programs will be volunteers and deputies being reassigned to these programs. Also, the service/protection to the people of Walton Co. will be increased considerably.

For 42 yrs. I have been a supporter and staunch defender of the Second Amendment. Being in law enforcement it made me even more aware of how important this amendment truly is. Every American who feels they wish to own a firearm for their protection or the protection of their family or any other legal use of a firearm should have that right!

My open door policy STARTS RIGHT NOW.....I will gladly welcome any of your questions/conerns or suggestions you have.

My intention to become Walton Co.'s next Sheriff is not to abuse the power of the position or for monetary gain, as my wife and I will be making large donations to help "Women and Children in Distress" , "Socks" and "Ruff" as we have a strong desire to help those in need, and feel that by becoming the next Sheriff of Walton Co. I will be able to help all the people with my plan as stated above. I hope you will agree, and support and vote for me as your "ACCESSIBLE AND AVAILABLE SHERIFF!"

Thank you, and if you also want these changes, make "THE WISE CHOICE YOUR CHOICE."

The Bar Has Been Raised.

Adkinson, Sconiers, Macon, Brown, anyone else looking to split the vote,(don't bother Ralph...) this is what the people want. Tell us about yourself, list your qualifications, what are you going to do for us. Don't wait, don't give us excuses, do it. Write it up, post it on SoWal, let's go already. Right now the only qualified candidate looks like Dennis Wise, at least he gives us something to look at and base our dialogue and decisons off of. (This is in no way any endorsement for D. Wise)

P.S. Dennis, do you have a college degree? Also, can you list your additional training and experience? Nice work on the post.

Re: Next Sheriff

When elected, I intend to implement the following programs and units within the Office of the Sheriff:

Contracting and Licensing Fraud Unit, Street Crime and Gang Intelligence Unit, Citizens on Patrol Unit, Handicapped Volunteer Parking Unit, Tri-County Burglary and Narcotics Unit, Internal Affairs Unit, Crash Review Board, Community Service Aides, Increase Reserve Unit, Citizens Police Academy, Jr. Deputy Program, Bike Patrol Unit and a County Wide Traffic Unit.

Things I intend to accomplish:

Restore the Integrity of the Sheriff's Office
Training for both Road Patrol and Investigators
Animal Control to have special arrest powers pertaining to animal abuse
I will push state lawmakers to add the additional penalties for drugs being sold within 1000 ft. of a school to now include school bus stops.
I will have an open door policy for the residents of Walton Co.
A wheels of excellence type program for our elementary schools
An active and well-informed Public Information Office
Bring the true meaning of "Protect and Serve" back to the Sheriff's Office.
(NONE OF THE ABOVE IS CURRENTLY BEING DONE AT THE WALTON CO. SHERIFF'S OFFICE). Implementing the above will be of minimal cost, as most of the programs will be volunteers and deputies being reassigned to these programs. Also, the service/protection to the people of Walton Co. will be increased considerably.

I don't see anything about improving the finance situation, but I believe you have said before that you'd tackle that issue as well.

I think that the teen youth of the county, more specifically those in the north part, could really benefit from a jr. deputy or Explorer program that would instill character, self-confidence and a path toward a law enforcement career. Kudos.

For 42 yrs. I have been a supporter and staunch defender of the Second Amendment. Being in law enforcement it made me even more aware of how important this amendment truly is. Every American who feels they wish to own a firearm for their protection or the protection of their family or any other legal use of a firearm should have that right!

This is good to hear. Will you sign off on NFA form 4's?

Re: Next Sheriff

If elected, will you or your Deputies arrest beachgoers for sitting on the beach, as they have done for many years?

Thanks for trying to get your message out to the public.

Re: Next Sheriff

The Bar Has Been Raised.

Adkinson, Sconiers, Macon, Brown, anyone else looking to split the vote,(don't bother Ralph...) this is what the people want. Tell us about yourself, list your qualifications, what are you going to do for us. Don't wait, don't give us excuses, do it. Write it up, post it on SoWal, let's go already. Right now the only qualified candidate looks like Dennis Wise, at least he gives us something to look at and base our dialogue and decisons off of. (This is in no way any endorsement for D. Wise)

P.S. Dennis, do you have a college degree? Also, can you list your additional training and experience? Nice work on the post.

I do not have a college degree, but do have some college. I do on the other hand, hold a Professional Certificate in Law Enforcement Science and Criminal Justice issued by the International Academy of Criminology. I have been an instructor for the American Police Academy in Washington D.C.

As for my training: I hold certificates of training in Traffic Homicide Investigation, Accident Investigation, Interviews and Interrogations, Law Enforcement Advanced Photography,


course given by the FBI, Hate Crimes Training, given by the Office of the Attorney General, Defensive Driving, The Integration of Operational Skills for Law Enforcement Officers, Evidence Technician Basic (CSI), Arson and Incendiary Devices, Weapons of Mass Destruction for First Responders, Clandestine Laboratory Recognition and Safety Awareness, given by the DEA, Project Safe Neighborhoods, given by the ATF, Discriminatory Profiling in Professional Traffic Stops, Law Enforcement Officers Flying Armed, given by the United States Treasury Department, Labor Relations: Contract Administrations, given at Nova University, State of Florida's Standards and Training, include a certificate of compliance, Career Development for Refresher Training, Career Development for Intermediate Training, Career Development for Advanced Training, Career Development for Supervision Training, SWAT Training and Doppler Radar Certified.

In Broward County in the early '80's, I became the expert on impaired drivers. I became the very first law enforcement officer in the state of Florida to be certified in court as an expert. This was done in Broward, Dade and Seminole Counties. I trained both State Attorneys and Public Defenders in DUI cases, I also gave seminars to the Association of Trial Lawyers of America at the Nova Law Center.

At present I am the elected National President of the American Federation of Police and Concerned Citizens, an organization that has over 107,000 members nationwide. I started a program called 'Vests for Life' which offers any law enforcement officer in the United States a used bullet resistant vest free of charge, because a used vest is better than no vest. In it's first 18 months, one officer's life was saved because he had one of the vests. For the creation of this program, I received a letter of commendation from the President of the United States.

I have written articles for the 'Police Times' and 'Chiefs of Police', along with the PBA Centurion. As National President, I have been contacted for my opinions by media across the United States and the Federal Government. I have appeared on radio and television pertaining to law enforcement matters, I am also a published author.

Awards: Silver Star for Bravery, Merit Award for Excellent Arrest on six occassions, this is given for making an arrest on a dangerous felon, The Honorable Service Award on two occassions, The Legion of Honor, The J. Edgar Hoover Memorial Award, Outstanding Commendation Award times two, Criminal Investigation Award, Exceptional Service Award, The J. Edgar Hoover Award for Distinguished Police Service, Knights of Justice Award, Patriotism Award, St. Gabriel Possenti Medallion, The George Washington Medal, A Plaque of Appreciation from the Association of Trial Lawyers of America. I also have many letters of appreciation from local, state and federal agencies. I also hold the Honor of being Supreme Grand Knight in the Order of Michael the Archangel.

I hope this answers your questions and find that I am qualified for the Sheriff's position. If you or anyone else have any other questions, please do not hesitate to ask.

Dennis Wise

MAKE THE WISE CHOICE YOUR CHOICE

Re: Next Sheriff

If elected, will you or your Deputies arrest beachgoers for sitting on the beach, as they have done for many years?

Thanks for trying to get your message out to the public.

What I will try is training the deputies in diplomacy. If diplomacy fails, I have no choice but to enforce the law as written, as I am there to enforce the law, not the one that makes the law. I do not think it is right personally, but that does not make it legal. It is my intention to change the statement which I read in the paper, "Come to Walton Co. on vacation, and you too will leave on probation." HOPEFULLY... THROUGH DIPLOMACY.

Thanks for your question.

Dennis Wise

MAKE THE WISE CHOICE YOUR CHOICE

Re: Next Sheriff

I don't see anything about improving the finance situation, but I believe you have said before that you'd tackle that issue as well.

I think that the teen youth of the county, more specifically those in the north part, could really benefit from a jr. deputy or Explorer program that would instill character, self-confidence and a path toward a law enforcement career. Kudos.



This is good to hear. Will you sign off on NFA form 4's?

If you have the proper paperwork showing that you are legal, I will be more than happy to sign.

I am glad that you think the Jr. Deputy program is a beneficial program, as I do.

I do intend to tackle the financial situation now plaguing the Sheriff's Office and naturally will always try to get the most 'bang from the buck'.

Dennis Wise

MAKE THE WISE CHOICE YOUR CHOICE

Re: Next Sheriff

Re: Next Sheriff

The above resume is a perfect example of why you don't need a college degree to qualify for a position. I might add this should not be considered an endorsement of Mr. Wise, although at first blush, I sure like his qualifications.

Re: Next Sheriff

Dennis, thanks for your thoughtful replies. Let me know how I can help.​

You can tell others about me and ask them to tell others. And thank you very much!

Sorry, I don't know how to add another little boy to your avatar
But if I find out I'll let you know.

Dennis Wise

MAKE THE WISE CHOICE YOUR CHOICE

Re: Next Sheriff

Is that a Walton County Sheriff's uniform which you are wearing in your photo?

Re: Next Sheriff

The above resume is a perfect example of why you don't need a college degree to qualify for a position. I might add this should not be considered an endorsement of Mr. Wise, although at first blush, I sure like his qualifications.

I agree with you on this list of qualifications. Let's not get stuck too long on college vs. no college, next it will be high school degrees (someone will say the sheriff does not need one of those next). I know I started the point and I still believe (my opinion) that a candidate for sheriff in 2008 should possess a college degree. With that said, if and when someone else presents a bio like the one D. Wise did, I firmly believe that is enough supplemental training to equate to a degree (military experience also can supplement). Please understand I will not rule out anyone based only on having or not have a degree, this example with D. Wise should clear that up.

We do not live in Mayburry (although it sure seems that way sometimes). A candidate for sheriff should possess Education, Training and Experience. Education = H.S. + College, Training = Law Enforcement Certifications, etc, Experience = on the job, preferred in a leadership role, not just a ticket writer, Business experience, public speaking, etc.

Dennis Wise did a great job responding to the request(s). Let's see who steps up to the plate and follows his lead...

Re: Next Sheriff

Is that a Walton County Sheriff's uniform which you are wearing in your photo?

No, it is not a Walton Co. Sheriff's uniform. The uniform I am wearing represents the 'American Federation of Police and Concerned Citizens' and that is what the patches on the sleeves and the badge represents. The tie tack is the insignia of the organization. I wear the uniform each and every time I represent the organization in an official capacity, i.e., award ceremonies to honor law enforcement personnel who have gone above and beyond the call of duty, Police Memorial Services, such as on Police Memorial Day, which is May 15th, where AFP&CC honors our fallen brothers and sisters; when I present 'The Medal of Honor' and our packet to the widow/widower at a law enforcement officer's funeral. To read more about 'The American Federation of Police and Concerned Citizens' please visit our website at www.aphf.org.

Thanks Smiling JOe for your inquiry.

Dennis Wise

MAKE THE WISE CHOICE YOUR CHOICE

Re: Next Sheriff

Thanks for your replies, Dennis. Going back to this issue of "trespassing" on the beach. I have a few questions. I understand your position on the issue from your earlier post. Let me first start with the laws of trespass. I have read the laws on trespass, and am as confused as the lawyers I've asked. What is the determining factor between civil trespass and criminal trespass? The law is very vague, yet the potential penalties vary greatly. The person arrested for being on the beach this past summer was charged with criminal trespass, yet I don't see how sitting on the beach is a criminal act. I am told that the arresting officer makes the determination as to the charge.

My second question comes in proving trespass. If you, as an officer, receive a call regarding trespass, isn't the burden of proof upon the property owner to show the trespass, by presenting a current boundary survey and a deed, or do you just take their word for it?

Re: Next Sheriff

Thanks for your replies, Dennis. Going back to this issue of "trespassing" on the beach. I have a few questions. I understand your position on the issue from your earlier post. Let me first start with the laws of trespass. I have read the laws on trespass, and am as confused as the lawyers I've asked. What is the determining factor between civil trespass and criminal trespass? The law is very vague, yet the potential penalties vary greatly. The person arrested for being on the beach this past summer was charged with criminal trespass, yet I don't see how sitting on the beach is a criminal act. I am told that the arresting officer makes the determination as to the charge.

My second question comes in proving trespass. If you, as an officer, receive a call regarding trespass, isn't the burden of proof upon the property owner to show the trespass, by presenting a current boundary survey and a deed, or do you just take their word for it?

Smiling JOe, I have just returned from South Fl. where I was interviewed by channel 7 re my book. I contacted one of the "Legal Eagles" that is a friend of mine there to be able to answer your questions. He informed me that a civil trespass deals only with a law suit. A criminal trespass requires the property be POSTED...NO TRESPASSING... IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE FL. STATUTE. Diplomacy, (as I have stated before), by the deputies will be mandatory, to avoid an arrest. If there is a posting, then an arrest would be imminent, if the violator refuses to leave, as that is the law.

The burden of proof is used only in the court proceedings, and the homeowner will have to produce the required information, such as a survey and deed. A copy could also be obtained from the courthouse.

Thank you for your question, I hope this clears this matter up for you, and others that are concerned about this issue.

Dennis Wise

MAKE THE WISE CHOICE YOUR CHOICE

Re: Next Sheriff

I have not heard any of the candidates talk about the "black-hole" we have in our local system in regards to child abuse and domestic violence. A few months ago there was an article in the Walton Sun about a luncheon that was held to try and look into a domestic violence shelter here in Walton County. After talking to some who attended it was a good luncheon for meet and great, but not alot truly accomplished. By April, 2007 there was already more reported DV cases than all 2006 put together. Enough with the DUI's and Drugs...how about some social services out of the Walton County Sherriff's Dept. There isn't even a DV Advocate within the Department! Black-Hole...women and children..they need representation as well as tourism, drugs, and alcohol. South Florida does a great job upholding some of the toughest DV Laws in the country..we are missing the boat in a deadly manner here in the panhandle!

Re: Next Sheriff

Thanks for the reply, Dennis. That is the first time that someone has been able to explain the difference between the two types of trespass to me, and it does answer one of my questions.

I don't like the other part of the answer, though I realize that is probably the common answer.

Re: Next Sheriff

I have not heard any of the candidates talk about the "black-hole" we have in our local system in regards to child abuse and domestic violence. A few months ago there was an article in the Walton Sun about a luncheon that was held to try and look into a domestic violence shelter here in Walton County. After talking to some who attended it was a good luncheon for meet and great, but not alot truly accomplished. By April, 2007 there was already more reported DV cases than all 2006 put together. Enough with the DUI's and Drugs...how about some social services out of the Walton County Sherriff's Dept. There isn't even a DV Advocate within the Department! Black-Hole...women and children..they need representation as well as tourism, drugs, and alcohol. South Florida does a great job upholding some of the toughest DV Laws in the country..we are missing the boat in a deadly manner here in the panhandle!

As I stated in my first post, my wife and I intend to give substantial donations to "Women and Children in Distress" and if there is anything that I can do personally as sheriff to help in this matter, I will definitely do everything within the law to ensure the safety of the abused women and children! It is one of my main concerns, as my objective is to protect and serve. During my 35 yrs. in law enforcement, I have seen first hand the abuse to women and children in the counties I worked for. That is why I support 'The Women (and Children) In Distress' organization for their wonderful work. It is extremely important for women to have a safe haven to escape from their abuser! Law enforcement can only act after we are notified. I feel there is a strong need for a domestic violence coordinator within the WCSO and possibly we can get someone from the 'Women in Distress' organization to fill that position. Abused women can rest assured that the entire WCSO will be there to assist them and their children anytime they call upon us.

Having worked in South Fl., I agree with your comment, and I watched the program grow from almost nothing to what it is today in support of abused women. One thing I'd like to add, is that the 'Women (Children) in Distress' shelters are kept secret even from law enforcement, to prevent the abusers from finding their haven and possibly jeopardizing their operation or causing further harm to the women/children.

Thank you for your question.

Dennis Wise

MAKE THE WISE CHOICE YOUR CHOICE

Re: Next Sheriff

Thank you for your reply...not to put you down, but it was exactly what I expected. It all sounds good, and yes I expect that if your background is from south Florida that you do "get it", being that you have seen it "handled correctly". The only flaw is that for some time now everyone has been good at talking it up in politics...but like many others I am ready to see it! The old saying "show me the money". I know of a 2006 Walton County victim, that totally slipped through the system, even though she and her family followed the lead of the system through the entire process. Not only was there not an arrest, but the system has placed the victim in more danger rather than protection by handling things as they did.

Again, anything can sound good...make it happen!

Re: Next Sheriff

Thank you for your reply...not to put you down, but it was exactly what I expected. It all sounds good, and yes I expect that if your background is from south Florida that you do "get it", being that you have seen it "handled correctly". The only flaw is that for some time now everyone has been good at talking it up in politics...but like many others I am ready to see it! The old saying "show me the money". I know of a 2006 Walton County victim, that totally slipped through the system, even though she and her family followed the lead of the system through the entire process. Not only was there not an arrest, but the system has placed the victim in more danger rather than protection by handling things as they did.

Again, anything can sound good...make it happen!

The first step is to get elected! I intend to keep my word on every issue I have stated. With your help and that of others, we can make it a reality for 2009!! I have heard similar stories and we both know there is a great need for change. I AM THAT CHANGE!

Dennis Wise

MAKE THE WISE CHOICE YOUR CHOICE

Re: Next Sheriff

Mr. Dennis Wise:

I have enjoyed your posts and your willingness to communicate with the public (sowal, book signings, etc.). You obviously have far superior "People Skills" then many of the candidates (especially the current sheriff).

I am interested in a couple of things, the first of which is your references to S. Florida and Broward Co. How do you intend to bring that level of progressive law enforcement to Walton County? Seeing that Walton County is so set in its ways.

Second, what type of plan do you have to staff your administration? Specifically, (no names here) are you looking to replace some of the relics that currently only occupy space and collect a pay check (this was slightly referenced in Mr. J. Sconiers previous post and I hope it is elaborated on in the future).

As it relates to the two fired pregnant officers, would you hire them back? Would you look to compensate them for their time lost while fired (State Retirement, paycheck, etc.) as well as pay their attorney fees?

Finally, I have read your book, nice read, and I wonder what type of plan you have in place to prevent the unfortunate and far too often "accepted" incidents that occur between some of the counties more lazy officers, untrained dispatchers and relic supervisors (specifically the truck on Hwy 98 incident and many more you and I could discuss).

Thank you for taking the time to communicate on this post. You have answered my "request" to post qualifications and you continue to answer citizens (voters) questions. If appropriate, please let us know the "hows" as they relate to my above inquiry. Thank you Dennis. The Watcher is Watching and I like what I see.

Re: Next Sheriff

Yes, I will have to agree with Watcher...I like your people skills myself...There is a great need for change in this county...Hope to hear more form you about the issues truly at hand.