Britt Announces Withdrawal from Jackson Co. Sheriff’s Race

(Editor’s Note: This is the letter from Sheriff Charles Britt sent to the media Monday morning.)

After a great deal of reflection and prayer, I have decided that Iwill not allow individuals or groups of individuals with little or no morals to attack the Jackson County Sheriffs Department, my family, friends or supporters.

To allow this organization,which has improved so much,to be dragged through the political mud by Louie Miller,a disgruntled employee,is unacceptable to me. Miller, who by his own most recent actions, has proven that he is untrustworthy, manipulative and dishonest in nature. It is clear that in the previous audio presentation (Woody’s Roadside Bar and Grill recording) that the location, topic, and tone were staged. This ex-employee has attempted to distort the opinion of the general public in a matter which had not even taken place yet. This is clearly an indication of guilt. Had Mr.Miller done nothing wrong as he has claimed there would have been no reason to engage in this attempt to manipulate the facts?

I will not continue to respond to the release of edited audio recordings that were recorded during private conversations between friends and confidants in an attempt to bring levity and stress relief to an already and frustrated group, recorded and edited to enhance the desired effect on the topic of their choosing. This,as well as the continued attacks on me and this agency is unacceptable.

It is the contention of Mr. Miller and his attorney Adam Miller (no relation) that the firing of Louie Miller was political. The release of Louie Miller from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office was based on facts which were properly investigated and evaluated by the command staff. A recommendation was prepared and approved. These facts are documented and will be presented in a proper legal setting. It was the right decision for the right reasons.

I have requested that the Jackson County Board of Supervisors assign an attorney to address and respond to any further matters pertaining to the dismissal of Louie Miller as well as the issue of the fuel removal and disposal. My staff and I took due diligence to ensure that these matters were well documented as well as consulting with our legal staff prior to execution.

I made it clear to the Board of Supervisors and to everyone I meet, that I am not, nor do I ever strive to be a politician. I am a law enforcement officer.

It is for the above reasons that I announce my intentions to withdraw from the 2014 special election for Sheriff of Jackson County

Sheriff Charles Britt