When the list of candidates for sheriff-coroner of Mariposa County was listed I knew I had a tough choice to make. And I knew that the only way to choose was to do a check list of comparable qualifications. My final choice, based on comparison, is Mark Jones. Mark Jones has a degree in criminal justice and a degree in public administration, both extremely important assets to the position of sheriff. Mark Jones has a 31-year career in law enforcement covering just about every aspect of the field.

Mark Jones has served as a city police officer, a county deputy sheriff and with corrections facilities, a broad and meaningful range of duties, and most important to the post to which he aspires, 22 years here in Mariposa County. Mark Jones has been a sergeant for 20 of those years and has supervised and trained many young deputies, including the current sheriff and undersheriff. Mark Jones knows the territory. In addition to college level degrees Mark Jones has successfully completed many specialized courses in the various fields of law enforcement. But equally important to me and to our community in general, Mark Jones has a deep-seated sense of compassion for the rights and needs of his fellow man.

Being sheriff is not just catching criminals and collecting evidence enough to obtain a conviction. Being sheriff means looking out for the safety and welfare regardless of the challenge. Mark Jones faces up to those challenges.

As a final note, I have known and valued Mark Jones personally as a friend for 22 years. Before you vote, sit down and do as I did. Check off the qualifications of each candidate and vote for the most qualified. Nothing else matters. Mariposa wants and needs the most qualified for the good of you, me and our loved ones. Mark Jones for sheriff.

M. J. “Maury” Mervis