To the Editor:

My name is Sam Charleson. I have proudly served as Potsdam town justice for over 12 years.

I grew up here. My wife, Elaine and I raised our 5 children in Potsdam. I have served this community within the criminal justice profession for over 23 years. During that time I have served as a county corrections officer, a SUNY Canton police officer, a sheriff deputy and most recently as town justice.

I have been a field training officer and academy instructor for the sheriff and a crime prevention specialist at SUNY Canton.

As town justice I work regularly with defense attorneys and the district attorney's office to ensure all that who come before me receive fair and impartial representation. I take pride in explaining everyone's options to ensure they understand all available avenues regarding their charges.

These qualities and experiences make me the man for the job!

During my service as town justice I have had the occasion to come face to face with thousands of folks from all walks of life. I proudly say I have treated all of them with the respect I would expect had the tables been turned.

The overwhelming majority of these people are grounded, responsible citizens that made a mistake along the way. For those that aren't there must be a more severe consequence.

I take that responsibility very seriously. The state legislators have established laws with penalties for violators.

As a Justice one must be prepared to understand them, interpret them and apply them when necessary. I feel I have done that.

With your support on Nov. 6 I look forward to serving the Potsdam community for years to come. Thank you for your vote!

Sam Charleson

Potsdam Town Justice