Candidate: Richard Williams, Jr.

For a community to succeed, its citizens must first feel safe. Rich Williams has dedicated his life to the safety of others. A 19-year veteran of the U.S. Army and current reservist, the staff sergeant fought for his country in Afghanistan. For six years with the Florida State Troopers, he helped people hurt in accidents, assisted stranded motorists and defended the community from impaired drivers, drug smugglers and other threats to the traveling public. With your help, Rich Williams will protect St. Lucie County as its next sheriff—and help usher in the sense of security that our community so desperately needs. Rich Williams’ roots run deep. This father of three daughters and a son comes from a big family himself. A second generation resident of St. Lucie County, he has seven brothers and two sisters. This native son is from the neighborhood. He knows firsthand the needs of the people who build their lives, families, and businesses here. As your next sheriff, Rich Williams plans to build stronger partnerships between law enforcement and community stakeholders—seeking and inviting the talents and expertise of citizens like you in creating a safer and stronger environment for all of St. Lucie County. Today, Rich is pursuing his bachelor’s degree in computer science. But back when he was a fifth-grader at Francis K. Sweet Elementary School, his career education got a big boost. He shared his dream of one day becoming a lawman to his teacher, Beverly Thiess (since retired). Rather than brushing him off, she followed up on his interest and introduced him to a man who would serve as his mentor and change his life—Wade Hatcher, a now retired St. Lucie County Sheriff deputy. “From my time in the service and law enforcement, I know the Good Lord has had His hand of protection on me,” said Rich, who plays drums in the worship band at Immanuel Full Gospel Baptist Church in Fort Pierce. “But certainly He was really looking out for me by putting Ms. Thiess and Mr. Hatcher into my life. Together, they put me on a path that not only kept me out of trouble, but also allowed me to work on behalf of the people and community I love so much.” Rich joined the Sheriff’s Explorer at age 12. Later, he spent 23 years as a volunteer patrolling the skies with the St. Lucie County Sheriff Auxiliary Aviation Unit. His volunteer service was terminated when he announced his decision to run for sheriff. “I was so grateful for the opportunity to work closely with our deputies and the entire department.” Rich said. “We have some outstanding law enforcement professionals who have committed their lives—and are willing to give their lives—to serve St. Lucie County.” The military sharpened Rich’s leadership skills, where he commanded Bradley Fighting Vehicle in Kuwait and later conducting combat operations in Afghanistan. Today he remains close to St. Lucie County’s veteran community and is a member of American Legion Post 318 in Port St. Lucie. He also worked with the State of Florida for four years on veteran job placement. As the lead contributor to the Hundred Heroes project, he spent the last four years connecting veterans with respected Treasure Coast businesses. During his first 100 days on the Hundred Heroes project in 2012, he facilitated the hiring of 438 veterans. Rich is looking forward to his 100 days—and beyond—as your sheriff, and getting a lot of great things done for you and our county.