From a press release:

Peoria County Sheriff’s Deputies Back Darin LaHood
FOP Union: LaHood is a ‘strong, viable candidate,’ nearly 70% of membership supporting him

Peoria, IL – Indicating a change is needed with the current Peoria County State’s Attorney’s office, the Sheriff’s deputies local union in Peoria has overwhelmingly opted to support Darin LaHood for State’s Attorney in the November, 2008 election. In making this endorsement, the Union sends a clear signal that the incumbent of more than 20 years has lost touch with the County’s law enforcement sector.

In a letter dated May 20, 2008, President Blaine Duhs of the Peoria County Fraternal Order of Police Lodge #157 said; “The members of the bargaining unit for the Peoria County Sheriff’s [FOP] have taken a ballot vote with the results over 2/3 majority in favor of giving you our endorsement…you are a strong and viable candidate for State’s Attorney and we look forward to working with you…”

Union President Blaine Duhs added, ‘We are endorsing Darin because of his exceptional experience fighting crime, proven ability to work with others to keep our streets safe and commitment to law enforcement to be our partner in public safety. With the highest crime rate in the State during the past five years, Peoria County needs change and a new approach in the State’s Attorney’s Office. Darin LaHood is the right person to bring energy, new ideas and bold leadership to that office.’

“The support of a group of hard working law enforcement officers who battle the crime problem every day is a sign that my message of new leadership and change is being embraced by the public. The Sheriff’s deputies know that we can do better in the State’s Attorney’s Office,” said LaHood. “I am deeply honored to receive the endorsement of these law enforcement professionals.”

Darin LaHood, 39, was born and raised in Peoria. He is a former Chief Terrorism and Federal Prosecutor who served four years with the U.S. Department of Justice in Las Vegas, Nevada. LaHood was also an Assistant State’s Attorney in both Tazewell and Cook counties. LaHood and his wife, Kristen, returned home to Peoria in 2005 to raise their three children: McKay, Luke, and Teddy. LaHood currently practices with the Peoria law firm of Miller, Hall, & Triggs. Darin and Kristen are active in numerous Peoria charitable and civic organizations and are members of St. Vincent de Paul Church. Visit www.DarinLaHood.com to learn more about Darin, volunteer opportunities, or to contribute to the campaign.