As your candidate for Cecil County Sheriff, I believe that keeping our communities safe requires more than just responding to crime—it requires proactive, compassionate, and community-driven enforcement. We can no longer afford to be reactive. The challenges facing our county—drug abuse, mental health crises, unsafe roads, and school safety—demand leadership with a plan and experience that delivers results. That’s why my campaign is focused on forward-thinking initiatives that address the root causes of crime and foster trust in our neighborhoods.

Proactive Drug Enforcement
The opioid epidemic continues to impact families in every corner of our county. I’m committed to taking an aggressive but balanced approach—cracking down on drug trafficking while expanding partnerships for treatment and recovery. Enforcement alone isn’t enough; we must cut off supply and create pathways to hope.
 

Mental Health Training for Deputies
Our deputies are often the first to arrive when someone is experiencing a crisis. While they already receive training that exceeds current standards, I will go even further, ensuring that every deputy receives enhanced mental health training to better prepare them to de-escalate situations safely, respond with compassion, and connect individuals with the critical services they need.
 

Proactive Traffic Enforcement
Too many lives are lost to reckless driving and speeding. Under my leadership, we will enhance traffic enforcement, focusing on high-risk areas and utilizing data to make our roads safer. A visible presence deters dangerous driving—and saves lives.
 

Keeping Our Kids Safe in School
There is no greater responsibility than protecting our children. I will work closely with school officials to ensure that every school in Cecil County has a comprehensive safety plan and that School Resource Officers (SROs) receive the highest level of training, with a focus on building positive relationships with students and maintaining a strong presence in schools. Additionally, my goal is to address the understaffing concerns of the SROs in our county; we currently have 5 for our 29 schools.
 

Bringing Back Community Policing
Community policing isn’t just a strategy—it’s a promise. I will bring deputies back into neighborhoods, on foot and in local events, engaging directly with residents. Trust is built through presence, dialogue, and respect. I will make sure our sheriff’s office is visible, approachable, and accountable. Together, we can create a safer Cecil County—one where law enforcement works with the community, not just for it. As a retired law enforcement officer with decades of experience, I know what it takes to lead with integrity and results.
Our sheriff's office is struggling with a shortage of personnel, which puts the safety of our communities and the well-being of our deputies at risk. That’s why we must increase recruitment efforts and invest in the resources needed to attract and retain qualified officers. Annapolis has made an already challenging job even harder with its latest policies, so let’s stand together to support our law enforcement, who uphold professionalism, restore integrity, and ensure they have the necessary tools and personnel to protect and serve with honor.
 

Let’s move forward. Let’s be proactive. Let’s rebuild trust—together.
 

-Chris Sutton Candidate for Cecil County Sheriff