The SPLC Action Fund announced endorsements Thursday for candidates running for sheriff in two Alabama counties: Brett Jones in Madison County and Pamela Laffitte in Mobile County.
Jones is a former Navy SEAL and a longtime Madison County resident who has served as a police officer in multiple jurisdictions across the county. His campaign centers on building a more transparent and accountable sheriff’s office by ensuring every death in custody receives an independent, public review and by implementing higher training standards for deputies. He has also championed the Miller Project, an initiative to break the cycle of recidivism through mental health evaluations, partnerships with recovery programs and support for people released from the Madison County Jail.
“Too often, our jails hold people who need treatment and support, not a cell,” Madison Hollon, senior program manager of political campaigns at the SPLC Action Fund, said. “Brett Jones is committed to making Madison County a model for humane, accountable law enforcement. His plan to connect those leaving jail with mental health care, recovery programs and mentorship is the type of comprehensive support that should be provided for those who have made mistakes to prevent reentry and build safer communities.”…