Safford – Recently, at the monthly meeting for the Graham County Republican Party, Gira Herald had the opportunity to catch up on the candidates. Since they hadn’t attended the prior GOP meeting where some opponents spoke, this time they provided space for five questions aimed at introducing the candidates. Below are the exchanges.
What is your name, local history, and what is your background in law enforcement?
I’m Michael Bodine. Gira Valley is my hometown—it’s where I was both born and raised. I graduated from Safford High School after attending local schools. I come from a tight-knit family; my parents, Danny and Sheila Bodine, raised me along with my four siblings. I’m the third child. My respect for law enforcement stems from my father, who served as an officer for 28 years before retiring from the Safford Police Department. Inspired by his dedication, both my brother and I became certified law enforcement officers. I started my career in the county jail, dedicating four years there before becoming a deputy sheriff. For more than 18 years, I’ve had the privilege of working in various roles, including K-9 handler and citizen process server.
Why are you running for sheriff?
During my time in the sheriff’s department, I’ve faced numerous issues that either get overlooked or don’t receive adequate attention. Over the years, it seems that the motivations of some key officials have waned, resulting in an atmosphere that sometimes feels indifferent to these serious concerns. I think this is unfair to the good people in our community. As an officer, I voiced my concerns but felt powerless to initiate changes. As sheriff, I believe I can bring about the positive transformations needed to tackle these issues effectively.
What issues do you think need more attention?
There are several pressing concerns that have either been neglected or not sufficiently addressed. For starters, we must confront the heroin and fentanyl epidemic head-on. The high turnover rate within the department also leads to a significant drain on resources, ultimately costing taxpayers considerably. Lastly, I see a growing disconnect between community needs and how county employees are perceived, indicating a lack of genuine concern within our community.
How do you plan to address these issues?
We need to revitalize sheriff’s ownership across the county. It’ll help in upholding and enforcing laws more effectively. I’ll also leverage technology to combat the organizations contributing to this crisis. Providing officers with the right tools and resources will boost their confidence and effectiveness. I’m committed to creating an environment of coaching, learning, and collaboration within the department and community. My goal is to strengthen relationships with both officers and the community, enhancing connections and shared experiences.
Why should Graham County voters choose you for sheriff?
As sheriff, I’m dedicated to investing further in our community, backed by my extensive experience in law enforcement and as a local business owner. The challenges we face extend well beyond what we’ve discussed here, but it’s clear that change doesn’t happen overnight. I’m committed to initiating meaningful change, driven by a genuine care for our community. I’m ready to serve and prove that my words align with my actions.
