Community Support for Larry Leitha

Lucy Wilke - 216th District Attorney

Lucy Wilke

216th District Attorney

I’ve been a criminal prosecutor for my entire career and work very closely with the sheriff. I’ve known Larry professionally for most of my career. I am not endorsing a friend. I am endorsing the person I would like to see as the next Sheriff from the perspective of how it will affect my office. I wouldn’t endorse anyone unless I truly believe in their character and I am basing my decision on my personal experience as a prosecutor working with Larry on felony cases for many years. He will lead with integrity and honesty and will be a team player.

Scott Monroe - 198th District Attorney

Scott Monroe

198th District Attorney

Larry, because of all he’s done, commands respect. Popularity won’t save the day. It needs to be respect. No rule prohibits a DA from endorsing a candidate, and you don’t want to make an enemy of someone. It is pretty unusual to do this, but [216th District Attorney] Lucy and I thought it was important to let our thoughts be known.

Jason Waldrip

Jason Waldrip

We have two candidates that say they have experience. A person can be anywhere for a period of time and say I have “experience” but you have to look deeper into what that “experience” entails and look at what someone has done over their career and the job knowledge a person has acquired.

I know personally that Larry graduated from one of the most intense and demanding law enforcement academies in the country.
I know personally Larry was assigned as a Trooper keeping our highways safe through traffic enforcement and also seeking out criminals utilizing our highways moving from place to place.

I know personally that Larry was promoted into the State’s narcotics division placing himself in increased danger taking on undercover roles in covert investigations bringing down drug traffickers.

I know personally that Larry was trained in investigating and safely disassembling clandestine methamphetamine labs arresting those “cooks” putting Methamphetamine in our neighborhoods.

I know personally that Larry worked jointly with the FBI Safe Streets Task Force dismantling Mexican Mafia cells.
I Know personally that Larry work jointly with Federal and local agencies in “John” stings attacking the customers who perpetuates prostitution.
I know personally Larry work in human trafficking operations arresting those victimizing children through prostitution.
I know personally that Larry traveled to our borders working to deter the smuggling of narcotics and persons into Texas.
I know personally that Larry was called upon to protect our State and Federal Government elected officials from past presidents, Texas governors, and congressmen. I know personally that Larry sought out thousands of hours of training throughout his career to continue to develop as an law enforcement professional.

There is not even close to enough room on this forum to fully detail Larry’s 30 years of “experience”. If you want Kerr County to be safer vote for a proven crime fighter as Sheriff. Vote Larry Leitha as Kerr County Sheriff.

James

James "Charlie" and Pam Hicks

My name is James "Charlie" Hicks. My Law Enforcement background includes former Kerr County Precinct 2 Constable, Interim Kerr County Sheriff and Chief Deputy, Head of Kerr County Sheriffs Office's Special Operations Unit, Bandera County Sheriff Chief Deputy, and Chief of Police for the City of Bandera.

I have known Larry for over 20 years. I have worked many Narcotic Cases with him throughout that tenure. I know Larry to be very professional, his integrity is beyond reproach and I strongly endorse him as our next Kerr County Sheriff.

Both my wife Pam Hicks and I have worked many years at the Kerr County Sheriff’s Office. We truly care what happens in our county and with our Sheriff’s Office. We spent many years doing our part making it the strong foundation it is today.

Pam Hicks was the former Kerr County Jail Administrator, Dispatch Supervisor and Crime Prevention Deputy. I'm sure most people know her through her work as the Crime Prevention Deputy serving as the director of the Sheriff's Citizen's academy. Where, "Every new class was her favorite" (LOL).

Neither of us would openly endorse any candidate if we did not believe they would continue and improve on what Sheriff Hierholzer has accomplished in his many years as Sheriff of Kerr County. He was a great leader and our belief is the candidate to take his place must continue on with that legacy and build up on that foundation.

For Pam and I, and all my immediate family in Kerr County, we believe that person to be Larry Leitha.

Tommy Ryno - Department of Public Safety, Criminal Law Enforcement, Lieutenant; 216th Judicial District Task Force Commander (Ret.)

Tommy Ryno

Department of Public Safety, Criminal Law Enforcement, Lieutenant; 216th Judicial District Task Force Commander (Ret.)

I have lived in Kerr County for 40 years and have been in law enforcement for 31 years. As a retired Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Law Enforcement Lieutenant and 216th Judicial District Task Force Commander, I had the opportunity to work with retired DPS Special Agent Larry Leitha. I have always found Larry to be a proven law enforcement professional. Larry is experienced in working all levels of law enforcement and has filed successful cases at all levels of the judicial system. Larry has proven to be a successful law enforcement officer throughout his long career. Larry has been incredibly involved in community and is committed to protecting it. I believe Larry is the best qualified candidate for the Office of Sheriff of Kerr County, and he has my full support and vote!

J. Patrick O’Burke - Commander, Criminal Law Enforcement Division (Retired) Texas Dept. of Public Safety

J. Patrick O’Burke

Commander, Criminal Law Enforcement Division (Retired) Texas Dept. of Public Safety

I would like to publicly endorse Larry Leitha as Sheriff for Kerr County. I have known Larry for more than twenty years as his Captain and then as Deputy Commander over the Texas DPS Narcotics Service. Having supervised Larry for many years, it was clear that Larry always presented himself as a professional investigator who worked exceedingly well with other law enforcement agencies. Larry's skills as an accomplished investigator combined with his extraordinary interpersonal skills make Larry the clear choice for Sheriff in Kerr County. I would strongly endorse everyone to vote for Larry Leitha for Sheriff.

Jose M. Morales - CID Major (Retired) Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division (Region 6)

Jose M. Morales

CID Major (Retired) Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division (Region 6)

As a retired Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division (CID) Major for the South-Central Region (Region 6) I am proud and honored to support retired CID Special Agent Larry Leitha for Kerr County Sheriff. Larry worked under my command for eight years where he was specifically assigned to narcotics investigations. During his assignment Larry demonstrated a great level of professionalism, skill and knowledge about his duties and was always ready and available to assist anyone in need.

Several important qualities in law enforcement we must always keep and honor are integrity, leadership and transparency, as these traits define an officer's character and the organizational culture when in a leadership position. I am confident that Larry Leitha possess all these qualities, and I urge the citizens of Kerr County to support him as your next Sheriff.

Earl Heath - Chief Deputy Sheriff LaSalle County, Texas DPS Highway Patrol, Lt. (Ret.)​

Earl Heath

Chief Deputy Sheriff LaSalle County, Texas DPS Highway Patrol, Lt. (Ret.)​

My name is Earl Heath. I am a retired DPS Lieutenant with 32 years of law enforcement service. Currently employed as Chief Deputy Sheriff of LaSalle County, I understand the challenging demands on a county Sheriff. I have known Larry L. Leitha for 31 years and I trust him, respect his judgement, and I know his integrity to be above reproach.

Coming from the small community of Center Point, Tx Larry's ability to communicate with folks in a friendly manner developed before he was a Deputy Sheriff. He always approaches any situation with an open mind. When confronted with a bad situation he chooses appropriate solutions that respect the dignity of the public and the department.

I met Larry when he was a Deputy Sheriff in Medina County in 1989. Larry was at the start of his career in Law Enforcement. Early on it was evident Larry wanted to do his job correctly and do it well. If he did not know or understand a thing, he would find the right answers before moving forward. Larry often uses the old saying, IF YOU DON’T DO A JOB RIGHT THE FIRST TIME, WHEN WILL YOU HAVE TIME TO DO IT OVER!

In my opinion Larry is a natural born leader. In 1992, Larry worked for Devine Police Department as a Sergeant supervising a unit of young police officers. I was a witness to his ability to mentor younger officers as he always promoted courtesy and respect with folks both on and off duty.

Later in 1995 Larry and I worked together as Highway Patrolmen stationed in Devine, Tx. He decided he wanted to promote into the Narcotics Division of DPS and he did. He worked hard for the promotion and spent years in the Laredo area in a high volume of narcotics traffic. Later Larry transferred to Kerrville and there he was back at home.

I used to tease him calling him Mr. Mom. Larry was always investing in his children involving them in sports and Four H. He is a family man and often called upon by his family members when help or advise is needed. Larry is frugal with his money and has always maintained healthy finances.

Larry's knowledge, experience, and maturity is required for the responsibilities of a Sheriff. He has the knowledge and abilities to keep a tight rein on the budget and represent you and your tax dollars. He treats folks with respect, courtesy and will provide protection for all citizens of Kerr County. Larry brings with him skills and knowledge developed while working for the Texas Department of Public Safety, Medina County Sheriff’s Department, and the City of Devine Police Department. For all the above reasons I endorse Larry L. Leitha for Sheriff of Kerr County.

Ronnie A. Bock - Owner, Ronnie Bock's Kerrville RV

Ronnie A. Bock

Owner, Ronnie Bock's Kerrville RV

With the retirement of our great Sheriff, Rusty Hierholzer, it is important we elect a new Sheriff with a vast array of law enforcement experience, a Sheriff who can make decisive decisions, and whose only agenda is to continue to serve and protect all the citizens of Kerr County. Join me in voting for Larry Leitha for Sheriff so he can become a part of the outstanding men and women of law enforcement we have grown to appreciate in Kerr County.

Sheriff Dan Butts - Bandera County Sheriff; Retired DPS Highway Patrol Sergeant

Sheriff Dan Butts

Bandera County Sheriff; Retired DPS Highway Patrol Sergeant

I have known Larry for 25 years. We worked together in DPS for 15 years and another 10 years while he was still in DPS and I was Sheriff.

He upholds the highest standards of professional conduct and respects the constitutional rights of individuals. He is experienced at all levels of law enforcement, from local to state and federal, including work with the FBI, US Marshals, and DEA. I have worked with Larry, taking on dangerous career criminals like drug traffickers. He is the best person to keep our neighbors in Kerr County safe. Larry and I will work side by side to work together the citizens of our region.

Sheriff Miguel Rodriguez - LaSalle County

Sheriff Miguel Rodriguez

LaSalle County

I have been the LaSalle County Sheriff for 8 years. I have been in Law Enforcement for 40 years. I had the opportunity to work with Larry Leitha for 30 years while he was a Medina County Deputy, Devine Police Department Sergeant, DPS Trooper and DPS Special Agent. I have always known Larry to conduct himself in a professional manner. He has also been a team player. I have called upon him for advice in many cases.

I have first-hand knowledge of the experience, dedication, qualifications and leadership that it takes to be a successful Sheriff. I believe Larry possesses all these skills and therefore I am enthusiastically endorsing him for Kerr County Sheriff.

Brian Vaughan - Constable Precinct #4, Kendall County. Office of Inspector General, Lieutenant (Retired) Texas DPS

Brian Vaughan

Constable Precinct #4, Kendall County. Office of Inspector General, Lieutenant (Retired) Texas DPS

I was employed with DPS for 30 years and retired as Lieutenant. I ran for the office of Constable Pct. 4 in Kendall County and am now serving in that capacity. I have been serving the citizens of Texas for over 34 years in law enforcement. I was stationed in Kerrville from 2000 to 2012 with DPS as an investigator, alongside Larry Leitha. During that 12 years, I was able to work with and observe Larry’s work ethic and professionalism. Larry is one of the hardest working officers I have ever been around. Larry’s hard work paid off in cases made against high profile drug dealers, making the streets of Texas more secure. Larry is now retired from DPS and is seeking the office of Sheriff for Kerr County. I am confident Larry will protect, serve, and provide the citizens of Kerr County with the very best service law enforcement can provide. Please support my friend and colleague Larry Leitha for Sheriff of Kerr County.

Anton E. “Tony” Hackebeil - District Attorney, 38th Judicial District (Ret.)

Anton E. “Tony” Hackebeil

District Attorney, 38th Judicial District (Ret.)

It is without hesitation for any reason that I am endorsing Larry Leitha for the Office of Sheriff of Kerr County. The good people of Kerr County will be well served with Larry at the helm and guiding the Sheriff’s Department in the business of protecting Kerr County citizens. I have been an attorney for over 37 years, almost 15 of which I served as the elected District Attorney for Medina, Uvalde and Real counties before retirement. I have come to know Larry as a man of integrity without which you simply cannot have a law enforcement agency function successfully and without controversy. Larry demands respect, knows the rules and is not afraid to make difficult decisions while showing compassion and giving respect in return. There’s no doubt in my mind that he will demand the same of those he is commanding and will not tolerate otherwise. For years I have watched and worked with Larry engaged in the business of fighting crime and he did so with nothing but professionalism and was always true to his word. I respectfully request that you, the people of Kerr County, give Larry Leitha the consideration he deserves and elect him to be your next Kerr County Sheriff, a decision you will not regret. Thank you.

Alan Teague - TPWD Game Warden (Ret.)

Alan Teague

TPWD Game Warden (Ret.)

In my 31 years in law enforcement, 27 as a Texas Game Warden, I have met numerous fellow law enforcement officers and professionals. I have known Larry professionally and personally for 12 years, being introduced by Sgt. Chris Lalonde (DPS retired), when I was the Captain Game Warden here in Kerrville. Since our introduction, I have been privileged to work with Larry and have always been impressed with his commitment and the knowledge he provides to any situation. His experience with all levels of law enforcement, including local, state, and federal agencies give him a unique perspective as to all facets of the law enforcement environment. Larry has demonstrated his ability to transcend work with other agencies by working with not only local and state agencies but also with the FBI, US Marshals, and the DEA. Larry offers his service and experience regardless the circumstance and is a law enforcement officer with the commitment, dedication, and work ethic to excel in any endeavor he pursues. Fortunately for the citizens of Kerr County, Larry has once again answered that call to service with his candidacy for Kerr County Sheriff.

As the Chief Law Enforcement Officer of the County, the Sheriff carries significant authority and responsibility requiring an individual with the knowledge, skills, and ability to successfully transition into the role of Sheriff. I, without reservation or doubt, believe Larry is the candidate for Sheriff, in that he will not only succeed, but will forge new ideas and strategies to continue the successful legacy of the Kerr County Sheriff’s Office. Larry is well respected, not only as a law enforcement professional, but as a citizen who resides and has raised his children in this County. Larry’s commitment to serving and protecting Kerr County is evidenced by his past work experience as a public servant and his willingness to step into the role of Sheriff of Kerr County.

Larry’s experience with investigations, arrests and obtaining prosecutions on a wide range of criminal activity resulting in convictions and subsequent incarceration of dangerous felons provides safety and security to our community and confirm his commitment to be “tough on crime”. Through experience and action, Larry has demonstrated his ability to be an administrator and manager across a diverse array of situations. Larry has served as a deputy allowing him the experience of patrol, a patrol sergeant allowing him the experience of a front line supervisor, a trooper allowing him the experience of statewide jurisdiction and responsibility and finally a narcotics investigator giving him the experience in high level investigations and unifying a diverse team of multi-faceted professionals. His ability to lead is evident throughout his 31-year career in law enforcement and his leadership will serve the office of Sheriff at the highest level.

Larry is a staunch believer and defender in the constitutional rights of every person. He works hard each day to ensure that everyone is treated fairly and respectfully and will ensure the same of those he will be elected to lead. Larry leads by example and “as the past is the best indicator of the future”, the citizens of Kerr County will have a Sheriff that demonstrates the highest level of professionalism and accountability as we look to elect our next Sheriff. Larry exemplifies the dedication, determination, commitment, and experience required to successfully transcend the Office of Sheriff.

As a retired Texas Game Warden Major and resident of Kerr County, I fully endorse both professionally and personally, Larry Leitha for Sheriff of Kerr County.