Statement by Sheriff

On August 2, 2020, the Oswego County Sheriff’s Department marine patrol was providing security on
Oneida Lake during a Trump Flotilla event. It is standard practice for our marine patrol to be on duty
every weekend throughout the summer and to provide security for all on-the-water events. In this
instance, I was on the marine patrol boat with our Deputies. During the event, a participant handed us a
flag, and I allowed it to be flown from the patrol boat during the event. As I have previously stated, I did
this to show support for the event participants and for our President, who has supported law enforcement
at a time when many groups are unjustly vilifying our profession. To do so was my decision only, not my
deputies’, and I take full and sole responsibility for it.

After the event, Oswego County Chairman Weatherup reminded me that County policy prohibits the
display of altered US Flags on County property. I understand that policy. Today I met with all members
of the Oswego County Legislature and assured them it will not happen again. I have received many
letters of both support and criticism. While I stand by my personal beliefs, I do regret that some people,
veterans in particular, were uncomfortable with the display of an altered American flag. There was no
disrespect intended.
Nevertheless, writing now not as Sheriff, but as an American citizen who has proudly spent his career
serving the public as a law enforcement officer, this incident has inspired me to be even more vocal about
the unjust and hypocritical criticism of police by anti-democracy groups and certain politicians who
pander to them. I will do so on my own time, on my own dime… and as loudly as I can!

I respect the right of people to have a critical opinion of what I did – this is America after all, and freedom
of speech is part of what the flag stands for. But let’s keep a clear-headed perspective here: I flew a
political flag on taxpayers’ property, yet many of the people criticizing me for that also defend rioters
who destroy taxpayers’ property! Is it a sign of people thinking reasonably when they support policies
that excuse and set free those who commit criminal acts of violence and assault, while at the same time
call for the termination of me and my Deputies simply for flying a flag? It is not.

I am proud of each and every one of my Deputies and Officers, and of the service and sacrifices they
make every day to keep the public safe. I honor and respect all the men and women of law enforcement I
have served alongside over the past three decades. I am proud of my career serving the public. And I
remain dedicated to continuing to impartially enforce the law, keep our communities safe. That will
never change.

Sincerely…