Questions from a concerned citizen

The following was posted as a comment to Mr. Brenneman by a resident of Chesapeake Beach. Mr. Brenneman's response is below.

Mr. Brenneman, I live in Chesapeake Beach with my wife and step daughter. First, thank you for the Facebook add. Second, I saw you at the forum in Prince Frederick as I was going inside, but did not get a chance to talk to you as the forum was beginning. (You were outside speaking to a lady about your campaign; I was the heavy-set guy with a goutee and very short hair wearing a sleeve-less black shirt who hurried by towards the building.) I am not a Republican or a Democrat (I'm registered Libertarian) and am deciding who to vote for in the upcoming election for Calvert County sheriff. Generally, I am conservative on fiscal issues and liberal on social issues. I do not support drug abuse, but I do oppose the "war on drugs" because I think it has been counter-productive and wasteful. I value security and safety, but I am not willing to sacrifice my liberty to obtain it. I oppose government forfeiture of property before cases have gone to trial. I also generally oppose government forfeiture of property in criminal matters that have gone to trial, unless the property was stolen or obtained with criminal proceeds. Anyway, could you advise where you stand on any or all of these issues?

Mr. Brenneman's Response

First, I am a registered Democrat, but have many people on my campaign team who are not. I have a very diverse campaign and enjoy the ideas from a wide range of critical thinkers. I consider myself to be fiscally conservative especially when spending the tax payer’s money. My opinions on the issues are as follows:

The War on Drugs

I don’t like the term but also do not like drug use and the potential damage done to families and our young people. I am prepared, if elected Sheriff to enforce the State of Maryland Controlled Dangerous Substance Laws but plan to do so using compassion.

Liberty and Safety

I have in the past and will again, swear an oath to defend the constitution; this is not something that I take lightly. These freedoms that are the foundation of this Country are what make us stand apart from others.

Government Forfeiture of Property

I am not opposed to conducting thorough investigations with a highly trained staff, and seizing property either obtained illegally or where the profits are a proven result of a criminal enterprise. The end result is that Law Enforcement usually just recommends the seizing of assets and puts its best case on to justify it. It is the State or Federal Government that pursues the seizing of assets. I believe in the process because it gives the aggrieved party an opportunity for a hearing or the ability to obtain the services of an attorney.

Thank you for your interest in my opinions on the issues. If our paths cross again, please pull me aside, as I would love to discuss my ideas further.

Thank you

Don Brenneman

“Brenneman 4 Sheriff”