By now most of you have heard the news that Calhoun County Sheriff Scott Anderson has been arrested for domestic violence and assault on an officer. On Saturday evening April 11, the Manson police were called to the residence of Sheriff Anderson on a domestic disturbance. The officer’s report that they heard the victim say “Get off me” when they arrived. They also report that Sheriff Anderson resisted them and even head-butted one of the officers. He was released on bond and a restraining order is in place.
Domestic assault has no place in our society. It is not limited to age, race, wealth or even gender. It is a sad part of our lives that we have not been able to rid of society. There is never an excuse for assaulting someone, sometimes there are underlying issues that can lead to abuse such as substance abuse, PTSD, and other mental health challenges. We will likely never know in this case. But many times, the abuse could have been prevented. Sometimes people do not have the courage to ask for help, including the people who are struggling with addiction or mental hardships. Sometimes, victims feel trapped or feel they are in love with the one who is abusing them and are unwilling to make that all too important call. We need to stand side by side as a society and not be afraid to address signs of abuse or mental health. All too often these lead to someone getting hurt. I implore everyone, if you or someone you know is struggling, get help and do not be afraid to ask for help.
In 2017 Sheriff Anderson was promoted to Sheriff to take the place of Sheriff Bill Davis. It was the city police that was called and not the Sheriff’s office. Would it have been different if it was the Sheriff’s office that responded? Many comments are floating around social media about how he will get a “slap on the hand” and be let off. We all hope that justice is served, and the court takes the right actions.
But here is the problem, how would we ever know?
The risk of promoting from within an agency is always the same. Is there a “good old boys” network set up? Will it protect their own? Give promotions to their friends? An office like this calls us all to a higher standard. Even good people in leadership can’t avoid the question and every action they take will be looked upon with an air of doubt.
It is important that those serving in this capacity can do so without the appearance of impropriety. The community’s trust in the office depends on it.
- Rick McIntosh
Polk County Sheriff Candidate, 2020
