Heroux is Alternative to Sheriff Hodgson
Sheriff Thomas Hodgson compares jail inspection to meat plant inspections.
Sheriff Thomas Hodgson is recently quoted as complaining that “we are inspected more than meat plants.” This is a telling statement about how he views the facilities he runs, the people they house, and the staff who work in those conditions. Hodgson is known for his (if you don’t like it) “don’t come here” philosophy. He regards the many complaints of substandard conditions in the jails he runs as political persecution rather than an opportunity to reform.
It is also interesting that his reference to meat-packing plants was a part of his response to Bristol County for Correctional Justice’s endorsement of Attleboro Mayor Paul Heroux’s bid to run for Sheriff. Paul Heroux, with a Master’s in criminology, correctional work experience, proven administrative skills, and an impressive track record of winning elections, is a serious threat to Hodgson who began his tenure as Sheriff as a political appointee without special qualifications.
Paul Heroux also represents a definite alternative to Hodgson’s “don’t come here” philosophy. He is running on a platform of reform with an emphasis on rehabilitation and humane, safe conditions as the best avenue to community safety and the most effective use of tax dollars. A revolving prison door is expensive and serves no one.
The voters of Bristol County will have a real choice this Fall, and it’s well past time for Hodgson to leave.
Amy DeSalvatore, Fairhaven
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