Former Washburn County District Attorney, Tom Frost, has issued a letter of support for Washburn County Chief Deputy Mike Richter, candidate in the 2018 Washburn County Sheriff’s Election.
In his letter, Frost states that he worked regularly with Chief Deputy Richter, describing their work together on the committee for Drug Endangered Children; a committee of law enforcement, social workers and legal staff who meet to discuss and address the impact that drugs in the community have on children.
“I have worked side by side with law enforcement professionals for over forty years. Mike is one of the very finest," says Frost ... “I feel fortunate to have worked with him and I believe Washburn County is fortunate to have him serve as its next Sheriff.”
His letter may be read below in its entirety.
"During the time I served as Washburn County District Attorney, I met with Mike Richter on a regular basis. We worked together on committees, criminal case oversight and review, and planning training activities. Mike is a dedicated public servant. He cares about his department, the justice system and his community.
"Mike is a problem solver. When with other professionals, he listens, he contributes and he works toward a common goals. One place this was most evident to me was at meetings of the Drug Endangered Children (DEC) Committee.
"Mike helped created DEC as a multi-disciplinary team approach to children exposed to drugs. On this committee sit representatives of all professions engaged in child protection. Social workers, law enforcement and legal staff get together to discuss cases and anticipate action and investigations. When police act, social workers know if children are involved and can act to protect them.
"Mike’s role in creating this collaborative team and ensuring its continuity highlights his commitment and attitude toward other professionals. While representing the needs of his department, he is always open minded, respectful and seeking a solution which supports other professionals and benefits the community. In my experience this level of cooperation is not commonplace. And, in fact, Mike was one of Washburn County representatives asked to speak about this team at the University of Wisconsin in Madison.
"As the Sheriff’s Drug Investigator, Mike learned the terrible toll drugs are exacting on Washburn County’s citizens. He understands the need for a cooperative approach to this issue and brings frontline experience to the table.
"One of the organizers of Washburn County Leadership, he helps promote knowledge and understanding of the positive role of government in our community. In 2014 Mike Richter was the first Chief Deputy Sheriff in all of Wisconsin to successfully graduate from Wisconsin Command College and received his Certified Public Manager Certificate. By experience, training and personal skills, he is ready to take on the challenges of leading the Sheriff’s Department.
"I have worked side by side with law enforcement professionals for over forty years. Mike is one of the very finest. He is an experienced, efficient and effective leader of a large law enforcement agency. He cares about his department’s mission, his staff, his criminal justice partners and the community. He works every day to deliver justice.
I feel fortunate to have worked with him and I believe Washburn County is fortunate to have him serve as its next Sheriff."
Tom Frost
Washburn County District Attorney (Ret.)
Last Update: Jul 21, 2018 8:02 am CDT
