This letter is a formal endorsement for Deputy Michael Morrison for Chelan County Sheriff.

I am a senior Emergency Vehicle Operations instructor for the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission, and I am also a retired 30-year law enforcement officer from Washington State. I worked for 18 years with the Clark County Sheriff's Office and 12 years with the Vancouver Police Department. I have been an EVOC instructor for the State since 1991.

In my capacity as an EVOC instructor, I have worked with Deputy Morrison for the past 5 years developing and updating Emergency Vehicle Operations curriculum and training. I have found Deputy Morrison to be thorough, knowledgeable, and dedicated to his role as a driver trainer. His research involving the laws associated with both training and policy demonstrates his approach to not only the task but also his overall work product and performance. His knowledge of the laws, especially as they relate to use of force and training is extensive, and his input into current and future training in his “home” county and the state represent his professionalism towards his agency and all law enforcement within the State.

As a retired law enforcement officer in Washington State, I understand changes must be made by everyone associated with the criminal justice system. Law enforcement personnel must receive the best possible training to perform at the highest levels of their profession. This means approaching changes with an open mind but also with the ability to study and research the best methods for change as needed to serve the citizens of his county and the State. Deputy Morrison understands these needs, and his willingness to serve as the elected Sheriff in Chelan County shows his desire to move law enforcement forward.

I know Deputy Morrison to be a dedicated and hard-working individual. His desire to accept additional responsibilities such as being an instructor or involved in search and rescue operations shows his willingness to do more in service to his community. He recently received training in collision investigation because he wanted to improve his understanding of the vehicle-driver relationship both as an investigator and an instructor. The additional training involved with collision investigation is technical in nature and requires an officer/deputy to have both an “attitude” and an “aptitude” towards the specialized work. Deputy Morrison succeeded with this training and continues to demonstrate his willingness to do more and to be more knowledgeable about his work and profession.

I fully endorse Deputy Morrison for his election to Sheriff in Chelan County.

Respectfully Submitted,

Stephen P. Capellas

Senior EVOC Instructor

Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission