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New Dane County Sheriff Sworn In
Mahoney Says He'll Look At Jail Overcrowding
POSTED: 6:17 pm CST January 2,
2007
UPDATED: 10:20 pm CST January 2,
2007
MADISON, Wis. -- Dane County Sheriff Dave Mahoney was sworn in Tuesday morning, which marked the first time in a quarter of a century when Democrats have swept all seven of Dane County's Constitutional elected positions.
VIDEO: Watch The ReportOn Tuesday morning, all took the oath of office. Four of those sworn in, including the district attorney and coroner, were re-elected to their jobs, and three will begin their first terms.All seven will grapple with increased challenges that come with the state's fastest-growing county."I look forward to working with each of you to meet these challenges, so that we can continue to make Dane County the best place to live," said Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk.Mahoney said his top priority will be addressing jail overcrowding. He said that he wants to get those with drug and alcohol additions and those with mental health issues the help they need.Finding a spot for a new Huber facility -- where help for those with additions will be housed -- is already a contentious issue.But those who have followed Mahoney's long career in law enforcement said they believe he will be successful.Mahoney's wife and two sons attended Tuesday's ceremony, as well as friends, co-workers and Mahoney's mom and dad."This is a very proud day, very proud day, and I feel he's really earned it," said Marlene Mahoney, Dave Mahoney's mom.When Dave Mahoney first took the oath to protect and serve, he was just 19 -- and too young to legally buy a gun. So his mother made the purchase for him."As a mother, I had a little reservation but went along and did it," Marlene Mahoney said.Since then, Dave Mahoney has arrested many dangerous criminals and risked his life on the bomb squad.Dave Mahoney said on Tuesday that he is grateful for the support he received from his family throughout his career."I've had great role models throughout my life, and they're two great role models," Dave Mahoney said. "I'd like to thank my family who are with us today. I took this oath 26 years ago and it's an honor and a privilege to serve as your next 50th Dane County sheriff."Dave Mahoney said that looking at jail overcrowding is at the top of his priority list."A major priority of mine will be to address why we're filling that jail in the first place and provide programs that address returning inmates back in to our communities as productive citizens," he said.Outgoing Dane County Sheriff Gary Hamblin was on hand Tuesday, and advised Mahoney to listen to his deputies."They know their jobs, whatever it may be. Whether it's on the road, in the jail, or in an administrative capacity, listen to your people, and they'll make you look good," Hamblin said. "I think the department is in good hands."Dave Mahoney said his agenda also calls for more help for domestic violence victims and the implementation of a county-wide traffic safety team.
VIDEO: Watch The ReportOn Tuesday morning, all took the oath of office. Four of those sworn in, including the district attorney and coroner, were re-elected to their jobs, and three will begin their first terms.All seven will grapple with increased challenges that come with the state's fastest-growing county."I look forward to working with each of you to meet these challenges, so that we can continue to make Dane County the best place to live," said Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk.Mahoney said his top priority will be addressing jail overcrowding. He said that he wants to get those with drug and alcohol additions and those with mental health issues the help they need.Finding a spot for a new Huber facility -- where help for those with additions will be housed -- is already a contentious issue.But those who have followed Mahoney's long career in law enforcement said they believe he will be successful.Mahoney's wife and two sons attended Tuesday's ceremony, as well as friends, co-workers and Mahoney's mom and dad."This is a very proud day, very proud day, and I feel he's really earned it," said Marlene Mahoney, Dave Mahoney's mom.When Dave Mahoney first took the oath to protect and serve, he was just 19 -- and too young to legally buy a gun. So his mother made the purchase for him."As a mother, I had a little reservation but went along and did it," Marlene Mahoney said.Since then, Dave Mahoney has arrested many dangerous criminals and risked his life on the bomb squad.Dave Mahoney said on Tuesday that he is grateful for the support he received from his family throughout his career."I've had great role models throughout my life, and they're two great role models," Dave Mahoney said. "I'd like to thank my family who are with us today. I took this oath 26 years ago and it's an honor and a privilege to serve as your next 50th Dane County sheriff."Dave Mahoney said that looking at jail overcrowding is at the top of his priority list."A major priority of mine will be to address why we're filling that jail in the first place and provide programs that address returning inmates back in to our communities as productive citizens," he said.Outgoing Dane County Sheriff Gary Hamblin was on hand Tuesday, and advised Mahoney to listen to his deputies."They know their jobs, whatever it may be. Whether it's on the road, in the jail, or in an administrative capacity, listen to your people, and they'll make you look good," Hamblin said. "I think the department is in good hands."Dave Mahoney said his agenda also calls for more help for domestic violence victims and the implementation of a county-wide traffic safety team. Copyright 2007 by Channel 3000. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
