Wafstet Announces Run for Missoula County Sheriff

MISSOULA - My name is Travis Wafstet, and I am a candidate for Missoula County Sheriff/Coroner. I am a Missoula native and I have lived in the Missoula area all of my life. I've been very deeply rooted in the Missoula community through public service for more than 15 years. I believe that my experience in emergency service and my dedication to our Missoula area communities will make me a successful Sheriff if you choose to elect me.

As you may know, the Sheriff is the chief law enforcement officer in Missoula County. I believe that the Sheriff must also be a good businessperson, a community leader and an advocate for the fair and equitable enforcement of the law for all citizens and visitors to our beloved communities in Missoula County.

I am running as an independent candidate because I deeply believe that the office of sheriff and the enforcement of the law should not be beholden to political parties. I believe that all persons must be afforded due process in the criminal justice system regardless of their political belief, community affiliation or social status, and I will uphold these values if elected.

My Professional Background:

• Began in law enforcement as a member of the Missoula County Sheriff's Office cadet/explorer program more than 15 years ago.

• Twelve plus years as volunteer firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician – serving in capacities as Fire Captain, Deputy Fire Chief and Assistant Fire Chief with East Missoula Rural Fire District for more than nine years.

• Five years as 9-1-1 Dispatcher and Training Officer for Missoula County 9-1-1.

• Over four years as sworn deputy for Missoula County Sheriff's Department. I've been selected for several special duty assignments while serving as Deputy Sheriff in the Patrol Division.

Relevant Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Criminology/Criminal Justice from Portland State University, graduated with honors as member of National Criminal Justice Honor Society – Areas of study including leadership, community policing, crime prevention, and other related topics.

• Attended a Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) accredited law enforcement academy with over 730 hours of basic training for National Park Service federal law enforcement program.

• Montana Law Enforcement Academy graduate with over 350 hours of certified continuing education relevant to law enforcement in areas of leadership, crisis intervention, and hostage negotiation

Special Assignments and Community Involvement:

• MCSO Cadet Program Coordinator

• MCSO Field Training Officer

• MCSO Hostage Negotiator

• MCSO Senior Deputy

• Montana Department of Public Health Human Services Licensed Foster Parent

• Missoula Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Board Member

• Missoula Rotary Club Member

• Missoula Valley Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Team Member

If elected, I pledge to display the above characteristics and utilize my knowledge, education and experience every day in both my personal and professional life as I carry out the duties entrusted to me in the Office of Sheriff. I would appreciate your support and I welcome your comments and suggestions as we embark on this process to elect the next Sheriff of Missoula County.

For more information email wafstet4sheriff@gmail.com or visit facebook.com/wafstet4sheriff