by Shawn Nowlin
In the coming months, a definitive statement regarding local politics will be made. As of right now, there are three candidates vying for the Salem Sheriff position in November: incumbent April Staton, Chris Shelor and Richard Goodman.
Goodman, who has served in law enforcement for 29 years, strongly believes that because of his experience in various areas, he is the most qualified individual to serve as sheriff.
“I have served in administration rolls, handled budgets, worked patrols (day and nights), fought individuals in the streets and in jail,” said Goodman who first ran for Salem Sheriff four years ago. “I have had to make arrests, train officers in the academy, deliver death notifications and much more. I am truly an all-around law enforcement officer.”
On July 1 at the Shriners Temple on Salem Turnpike, Goodman met with members of the community to have an open dialogue on a variety of topics and officially announce his candidacy for sheriff.
“Salem is a city that is looking to upgrade, and at the same time keep its small city curb appeal. But as we see around the Roanoke Valley, the state and the nation, crime is growing and spreading to areas that no one expected. I believe that Salem needs to be proactive and not reactive,” he said. “The Salem Sheriff’s office needs to be aware of the changes and be prepared to stand beside the police department in serving and protecting not only its citizens, but visitors alike.”
A Roanoke native, Goodman is a product of the City’s schools. Becoming a police officer was his childhood dream. After high school graduation, he enlisted in the Marines, serving six years before being medically and honorable discharged.
More than just a cop, Goodman is also a proud parent. His son, David, is School Resource Officer at Andrew Lewis Middle School.
In addition to local law enforcement, sheriff’s offices also often protect courtrooms and administer local calls. When news broke of the Salem Fair shooting last Wednesday, Goodman was in disbelief like everyone.
“My prayers go out to the victims and the family of the juvenile that was involved. This type of situation is what I was referring to as growing crime in the valley. The Sheriff’s office needs to be prepared, along with the police department to protect its citizens and visitors,” he said.
