JACKSONVILLE, FL – April 28, 2015 – On April 21, 2015, GrayRobinson’s Community Leader Forum featured a "Sheriff Showdown" debate between Mike Williams and Ken Jefferson, both running for sheriff in the upcoming May 19th general election.
Held at the River Club in downtown Jacksonville, both candidates answered questions from the audience on topics that ranged from public safety and body cameras to beach access and event security. Mike Williams and Ken Jefferson voiced similar goals; reducing crime and gang activity while gaining the trust and support of the community. Mike Williams spoke about his 23 years of experience with the sheriff’s office, and the key to fighting crime: prevention, intervention, and enforcement. Ken Jefferson referenced his written plan to reduce violent crime, drug crime and gang activity by 25 percent, which focuses on proactive enforcement and community outreach.
Mike Williams recently served as the Director of Patrol and Enforcement for the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO). After serving in the Air National Guard, Mike joined the sheriff’s office in 1991. During his time with the JSO, he was appointed Director of Investigations and Homeland Security, serving as lead chair for the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Executive Board. Mike retired from the department in August, 2014.
Ken Jefferson served as an officer in leadership with the JSO from 1986 to 2010. Ken is the CEO and founder of Jefferson Consulting Group, and he currently serves as Vice Chair of the Board of Directors of the Justice Coalition and National Vice Chair of the board of Directors for Operation Save Our Sons. Ken was recently appointed as an Expert Crime Analyst for local news station WXJT and has been a contributing author for The Florida Star.
Through its Community Leader Forums, GrayRobinson brings together clients, attorneys and friends of the firm to hear high-profile business and community leaders and elected officials discuss issues of importance to the state of Florida.
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