Missoula County Detective Sergeant T.J. McDermott has announced his candidacy for Missoula County Sheriff in 2014.

McDermott will officially file his paperwork on Thursday, January 9, to become a Democratic candidate in the 2014 election for Missoula County Sheriff, the first day candidates can file for office.

McDermott said he has been planning his candidacy for quite some time.

"This is something I've wanted to do for a long time, and the time is right," McDermott said. "I want to help create a safe community for the citizens and for my family as well. Over the last 18 years of my career, I've gained a lot of experience in a variety of assignments both on patrol and in the detective division. I want to use my vision and my experience to lead the department in a positive direction."

McDermott said he supports the U.S. Constitution and the right of citizens to bear arms.

"I believe in the Constitution and I believe in protecting the Constitution and in the right to bear arms specifically for legal, law-abiding citizens," McDermott said. "The sheriff is the chief law enforcement officer in the county, and a lot of power comes with that position. But along with the power comes accountability and transparency to the citizens who would hopefully elect me to that position."

McDermott said he wants to help create a safe community for his family, as well as everyone else.

"My wife's a teacher in town, and I have two small children," McDermott said. "I really want to ensure that all children are safe in our community. One of the things I'm most proud of is my experience with the Montana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. When you take part in investigating crimes against children and play a role in helping those crime victims and their families, while holding those accountable that have offended, it truly helps you recommit yourself the vision and the goal of public safety."

Candidate for Missoula County Sheriff T.J. McDermott

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