NORTHAMPTON — The New England Police Benevolent Association has officially endorsed Democratic candidate Patrick Cahillane for Hampshire County sheriff.
The group, which represents roughly 4,000 law enforcement personnel across the state, sealed the deal with its endorsement in a letter sent to the candidate last month.
“Your work experience alone, starting as a corrections officer and rising to the rank of sworn special sheriff, is enough for everyone to know you are the correct person for the dangerous job,” wrote Martin Conway, president of the group in the letter, shared with the Gazette. “Your career accomplishments demonstrate a true commitment to public safety here in the commonwealth.”
Cahillane, who is running against Republican David Isakson, has more than three decades of experience at the Hampshire Jail and House of Correction, where he now serves as assistant superintendent and special sheriff.
The outgoing sheriff, Robert Garvey, who was elected to five six-year terms, announced in February that he would not seek re-election.
The sheriff, who is paid $151,709 annually, oversees the Hampshire County Jail and House of Correction in Northampton, and is responsible for 262 inmates, managing a staff of about 175 and administering a $13.8 million annual budget.
On Nov. 1, Cahillane also received the endorsement of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 2324.
Northwestern District Attorney David Sullivan also previously endorsed Cahillane in late August, ahead of the Democratic primary.
The general election is Nov. 8, and early voting is open through Friday.