A 21-year law enforcement veteran has announced his candidacy for Lancaster County Sheriff. 47 year old Jay Pitts says his father’s dedication to Lincoln and Lancaster County inspired him to serve his community as a law enforcement officer and is a major influence in his decision to run for Sheriff of Lancaster County.
“My goal is to make the Sheriff’s Office an agency that other agencies want to model themselves after, from a
team concept, enhancing the morale of our employees, utilizing modern training to increasing community
communication and transparency within the sheriff’s department,” Pitts said in a statement. “As a lifelong resident of Lancaster County and the place I chose to raise my family, I humbly announce my candidacy for Sheriff of Lancaster County.”
Pitts says part of his platform for county sheriff will include fairly enforcing current laws instead of using the
sheriff’s office to change laws or influence lawmakers. “As Sheriff, the enforcement of the law is paramount. I
have no intentions of interjecting personal beliefs into creating new laws,” Pitts says. “That job is for the
Legislative branch of our government. The office of Sheriff should enforce laws as they currently stand, and
enforce new laws as they are created.”
Pitts plans to meet with local community leaders throughout his campaign to hear their concerns and
ideas. “As a 21-year veteran I know a lot, but learning and understanding the needs of the people we protect
and serve is ongoing. I am committed to making this department a great place to work and something our
community can be proud of.”
In addition to his work as a law enforcement officer, Jay volunteers his time as a board member of Lighthouse
an organization that offers after school programs for Lincoln’s youth. Jay enjoys spending time with his wife
and two children.
Jay says he developed his strong sense of commitment and service to his community from his father John Pitts Sr.
John Pitts joined the Lincoln Police Department in 1973 after earning two national championships while playing
football at the University of Nebraska.