South DSM News

Marion County Sheriff Jason Sandholdt is seeking a third term so he can continue to save lives whether it involves taking down criminals or talking with individuals in need.

“Helping people–that’s what I enjoy the most,” Sandholdt told the Marion County Tribune.

Sandholdt said when he first became sheriff eight years ago he looked at his role as being an enforcer of the law and combating crime. He has since learned that being a sheriff consists of interacting with the public who are mostly law-abiding citizens.

“Good people make mistakes,” Sandholdt said. “Preventing mistakes is a goal.”

For those that do commit crimes, Sandholdt said he will remain committed to ensuring the safety of residents and improving the justice system. He intends to obtain body camera for deputies as footage from these cameras is gaining importance in criminal cases.

Sandholdt’s office has been tackling the issue of substance abuse by arresting dealers and getting addicts the help they need while providing consequences for their actions at the same time. He is also working to decrease the incidence of repeat offenders by advising officials with the Department of Corrections and Board of Parole to give prison inmates longer sentences if they have a criminal record. Additionally, Sandholdt has taken measures to improve Iowans’ access to mental health care.

“Things are going very, very smoothly at the sheriff’s office,” Sandholdt said.

Besides being Marion County Sheriff, Sandholdt serves on Gov. Kim Reynold’s Drug Policy Advisory Council, Mental Health Council and Iowa’s Children’s Behavioral Health System Board.

The county primary race will take place June 2. Sandholdt is being challenged by Jeff Koder, a former deputy with the Marion County Sheriff Office. Koder retired from the sheriff’s office in 2016.