To the editor:

Lee County is historically known for its natural and cultural beauty. Nowadays, it is also known for its crime.

Sheriff Mike Scott believes crime is “everywhere USA” and “all relative” and the victims usually have criminal pasts.

I disagree. Many of victims of crimes each year in Southwest Florida are not criminals. Plus, as cops, we have a duty to protect everyone in our community.

Instead of blaming victims of countywide crime, let’s look at the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.

A $160 million dollar budget, but no considerable salary raises in nearly 10 years. We are over 35 deputies short on road patrol and losing more to better paying jobs by the week.

Some local police at: www.leoaffairs.com believe the only way to get ahead at LCSO is to pay for a promotion by joining the “$1,000 club.”

Curiously, the sheriff’s campaign donation list and recent LCSO promotional list nearly match up. What happened to promotions based on years of service and achievements?

Morale among LCSO deputies is low. They struggle on $35,294 a year, while working a dangerous job for days on end and can barely afford to pay rent or give their kids a nice Christmas.

It is time for a new sheriff.

James Didio

Fort Myers

Didio is a candidate for Lee County Sheriff.