Editor’s note: We’ll be publishing candidate profiles through Saturday in advance of the general election on Tuesday.

Democrat Nick Cirranello is challenging incumbent Ken Morris for the position of Monroe County sheriff. The salary is $74,737.

Nick Cirranello

Town: Sciota

Background: I am a current Deputy Sheriff of Monroe County. This county is my home and has been for over 20 years. I am currently a resident of Hamilton Township, and I grew up in the West End where I graduated from Pleasant Valley and eventually East Stroudsburg University. After college I proudly served five years in The New York City Police Department. I take pride in my daily service to our community as a Deputy.

Why are you running for office: Monroe County deserves better. As a deputy, I witness daily the failures and shortcomings of the current leadership. I am stepping up for my community to be the change that is needed. I grew up in a county where the sheriff and his office were respected, that is no longer the case. We need a sheriff that can address the changes, both good and bad, our county is facing, for the good of the people.

What is the biggest issue facing the office and how do you plan to address it: Our biggest issue is poor leadership. I will be more present, both physically and mentally, than the incumbent. I will work the same hours as my office. I am a firm believer of leading from the front and by example. The title and office of sheriff means that the sheriff should be more present and involved than any of the other members of their team. As of now, this is sadly not the case.

What will you direct your deputies/employees to focus on and why: First and foremost, my duty lies with the safety of Monroe County. Another one of my priorities will be more meaningful community outreach and initiatives. The county’s current backlog of warrants, as well as the effects of The Opioid Epidemic, are staggering and must be addressed. I will create a more proactive Sheriff’s Office focused on community safety, effective service, and meaningful outreach by working together with the community and other law enforcement agencies.

Sheriff Ken Morris

Town: Bartonsville

Background: As a Marine Corps veteran, who served 8 years, certified law enforcement officer, and your current sheriff, I am committed to upholding professionalism, integrity, and community service. Additionally, I have over a decade of experience in the Sheriff’s Office, including positions held as Corporal/Field Training Officer and Sergeant. With this diverse employment background, I bring a unique blend of military discipline, law enforcement expertise, and leadership experience to my role as your current sheriff.

Why are you running for office: I am running for re-election because of my deep passion and dedication toward serving our county residents. I firmly believe that our residents deserve nothing but the highest quality of service from their Sheriff’s Office, and I am committed to continuing to uphold this standard. Over the past four years, we have achieved remarkable milestones, and I am determined to build upon this success, ensuring the continued progress and prosperity of our community.

What is the biggest issue facing the office and how do you plan to address it: A significant issue confronting the office is high turnover rate/recruitment. The starting salary for deputies was $33,000/year, which was completely inadequate, while non-sworn staff members received even lower compensation. Despite a commendable 33% increase in salaries by the commissioners, they have yet to reach the necessary level to attract/retain qualified individuals. My commitment remains steadfast in working with the commissioners to ensure equitable and competitive salaries for all staff members.

What will you direct your deputies/employees to focus on and why: The Sheriff’s Office has experienced three relocations due to the construction of the new courthouse. Presently, we are facing understaffing issues while witnessing an increasing workload in the court system. Despite the stress we are experiencing, our office remains resilient. We are committed to continuing our focus on maximizing our efficiency and effectiveness, striving to uphold our office’s long-standing mission of delivering exceptional service to the county.