To the editor 鈥 It is my privilege to support Lt. Jake Church and his candidacy for Yakima County sheriff.

Having worked alongside Jake for more than 25 years, I have witnessed firsthand his leadership, courage, compassion and unwavering commitment to both law enforcement and the community we serve.

My support is rooted not only in his professional accomplishments but also in a personal experience that changed my life. In 2010, while serving together at the Toppenish Police Department, I was involved in a violent encounter with an armed suspect who pointed a firearm directly at my head. Jake, then my sergeant, acted decisively and placed himself in harm鈥檚 way to protect me.

Jake鈥檚 leadership extends beyond critical incidents. He has been instrumental in fostering a culture of support and wellness within the Yakima County Sheriff鈥檚 Office, particularly through the development of peer support and mental health resources. When I struggled with the cumulative effects of trauma, Jake and several others helped ensure I received the treatment and support I needed to heal and continue serving.

Jake has and always will lead with integrity, compassion and vision.

DERRICK PEREZ

Yakima

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