Ex-MCSO sgt. has axe to grind

letter to the editor
Published: June 19, 2008

Editor:

I would like to respond to the letter in your paper from “disgruntled” former Sgt. Shawn Hill who resides in Stanardsville and not Madison County. I have known Erik Weaver and his wife Terri for three years. I also have several good friends who currently work for Madison County Sheriff’s Office. I would like to address several items that Mr. Hill so freely and unknowingly mentioned.

Concerning the “embarrassment” by Erik Weaver — I would fight for my reputation if I knew I was right. I am sure that when the “rest of the story” finally comes out in court concerning why the information was not released under the FOIA, many citizens will be surprised and others embarrassed by what they really did not know.

It is apparent that ex-Sgt. Hill, through his association with certain other law enforcement officers and Mrs. Leigh Purdum, has an axe to grind with Sheriff Weaver and we should all remember that those who live in glass houses should not throw stones.

Secondly, pursuant to Code of Virginia 15.2-1606, the legal fees and expenses will be reimbursed to the county from the State Compensation Board. On the same note, it should be understood that the sheriff’s salary is paid totally by that same State Compensation Board and not “at the expenses of the hardworking taxpayers that pay his salary” as written by Mr. Hill who should have verified his information prior to submitting it in a letter to the editor for all to read.

The deputies of Madison County Sheriff’s Office are compensated by that same State Compensation Board with a minimal contribution by the Board of Supervisors and a few positions authorized and paid for by the board of supervisors. I believe that Madison County is getting its money’s worth and should do whatever it can to get salaries more comparable with surrounding counties, which they are not currently.

Mr. Hill states money was not an issue with him and I would suggest that he did indeed receive more money and other incentives, such as not having to worry about his position during election year.

Jerry Butler
Madison County