Sheriff Candidates, Former Inmates to Appear at Friday Forum

What could be a last chance to hear from candidates seeking election as Essex County sheriff takes place this Friday night in Haverhill.

The forum takes place Friday, Sept. 2, from 6 to 8 p.m., at 409 Washington St.

“A night of honest dialogue about what it will take to improve the outcomes of inmates, programs, and service outreach in Essex County,” according to organizer Power of Self Education (POSE).

Six Democrats and five Republicans appear on next Thursday’s primary ballots. The Democrats, in ballot order, are William Castro, Kevin F. Coppinger of Lynn, Michael J. Marks of Lynn, Jerry P. Robito of Lawrence, Edward J. O’Reilly of Wenham and Paul L. D. Russell Jr. Republican candidates, in ballot order, are Kenneth H. Berg of Danvers, Jeffrey J. Gallo of Haverhill, James P. Jajuga Jr. of Methuen, Craig G. Lane of Newburyport and Anne M. Manning-Martin of Peabody.

Independent candidates are Mark E. Archer of Bedford and formerly of Lynn and Kevin Leach of Manchester-by-the-Sea. They will appear with the winners of the Republican and Democratic primaries in November.

Archer, Robito, Castro, and Manning-Martin have confirmed so far for the forum.

Current Sheriff Frank G. Cousins decided not to seek re-election.

Besides candidates, POSE is asking former inmates and “men transitioning from street life to the table for a candid conversation about commonalities and interest in a shared result of how correctional facilities and service departments can help those who come into their service improve pathways that foster sustainable life transitions for positive outcomes countywide,” according to a statement.

Those wishing to participate or residents wishing to attend are asked to email [email protected] or call Kat or Dennis at 978 457-3676.