New Sheriff in Town for San Francisco
Posted on: 11/09/2011
San Francisco is getting a new sheriff. For the first time in more than 30 years it won’t be Michael Hennessey. Hennessey has decided to step down after thirty years of being San Francisco’s sheriff. His departure has opened the gates for three newcomers to vie for the position.
Ross Mirkarimi, Chris Cunnie and Paul Miyamoto, and David Wong all joined the fray in hopes of becoming San Francisco sheriff. Wong placed a distant fourth, but the others were fairly close. In fact, because none of them garnered 50 of the votes, ranked-choice voting will apply.
The San Francisco Sheriff’s Department is more than 950 strong. It’s primary charter is to operate the county’s jail system. The Sheriff’s department also handles security at government buildings.
After the final votes were tallied the Supervisor Ross Mirkarimi emerged victorious at 53%. The win isn’t surprising since he had earned the endorsement of outgoing Sheriff Henessey.
“I’ve been very clear and overt that I’m going to continue the legacy and build on the legacy of Sheriff Mike Hennessey, who I think is one of the most brilliant sheriffs in the United States,” Mirkarimi said.
Hennessey has long been an advocate of prisoner’s rights. Under his leadership the department created a number of programs to enrich and aide prisoners lives while inside.
Mirkarimi will be sworn in in January, and yes the new Sheriff will tote a gun and badge when in his new role.
