ECTOR COUNTY, Texas — Ector County Sheriff Mike Griffis told NewsWest 9 that he is running for a third term as Ector County sheriff.
Sheriff Griffis was born and raised in Odessa.
In May 1998, Sheriff Griffis volunteered as a reserve deputy, then on Jan. 1, 1993 he won the election for Constable Pct. 1.
Ever since 1995, the Odessa native has been serving citizens of Ector County.
Below is his full statement on why he is seeking re-election:
"I had goals to make improvements, get better pay, get equipment for the men and women who go out everyday to keep our community safe every day. We were the last agency in the area to issue service weapons to our deputies. Developed a fleet program. Increased training. Better competitive pay. We have some of the best state of the art technology now. Awaiting delivery of a one of a kind fixed wing drone. 18 mile range and 2 hour flight time per battery pack. We will be the only local agency in the state to have one at this point. Much of this stuff has been purchased with donated and seizure funds. I am a proponent of, if you happy employees, you have happy customers! These are just a few of the things my team and I have done. One of my next goals will to become better staffed, fill some empty positions, and hopefully continue to get new tools and equipment to help secure the arrest of those who victimize our people. I hope when I leave ECSO it is in better shape than I found it and the next Sheriff can take the reins and run with it."