Steve O. Simpson* (I)
Office Sought: Sheriff
Age: 55
Residence: Airmont.
Education: Police science course work, Northern Virginia Community College, FBI Academy; Virginia Sheriffs' Institute.
Occupation: Sheriff, Loudoun County.
Web site:http://www.sheriffstevesimpson.com
E-mail address: gsimp27633@aol.com
Offices and positions held: Member, American Legion, Loyal Order of Moose, N.Va. Regional Gang Task Force, Regional Chiefs & Sheriffs Committee, American Jail Assn., Intl. Assn. of Chiefs of Police, National Sheriffs' Assn. highway safety committee, Virginia Sheriffs' Assn. board of directors; past president, Loudoun Deputy Sheriffs' Assn. and N.Va. Criminal Justice Academy board; past chairman, Council of Governments correction chiefs committee.
Why should voters elect you?
"Having served as sheriff for 12 years, faced with homeland security threats, snipers, gangs and unprecedented growth, my leadership and commitment are clearly illustrated."
What do you think is the most urgent problem facing your jurisdiction?
"Loudoun County has an ever-present gang threat that jeopardizes the safety and sanctity of our communities. Gangs solicit or force membership of children and may harm or kill those that choose not to participate. Although most gang members encountered are legal residents, those that are not pose additional challenges and require additional time and resources. Successfully combating this problem requires the combined efforts of local, state and federal authorities and, most importantly, community involvement. Efforts must include not only enforcement but also intervention, diversion and awareness education to be effective."
What is your plan to address the traffic problems in Virginia?
I created a traffic safety unit several years ago and have expanded its capabilities as funding permits. Its purpose is to improve traffic safety through education, prevention and enforcement. Reconstructionists identify causes of crashes to determine behaviors that may be prevented and roadway engineering defects that may exist. Motorcycle deputies navigate around congestion to access and clear blockages. Truck inspectors remove unsafe trucks that place other drivers in peril. Sobriety checkpoints are conducted on a regular basis, and a highway incident manual has been developed that is utilized to efficiently divert traffic around problem areas and to establish evacuation routes as part of the emergency preparedness plan. I also serve on the National Sheriff's Association Highway Safety Committee to identify trends and develop new and unique responses. I plan to continue to explore new technologies and methods to provide innovative law enforcement strategies that will safely expedite traffic.
Do you think current policies governing growth & development in your area are too restrictive, not restrictive enough or just right?
not restrictive enough
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