Sheriff  Republican Norm  Cochran

Office Sought:  Harford County Sheriff           

Name:    Norman Cochran                                  

Age:  59                                

Marriage Status:  Married

Website:  www.cochranforsheriff.com

 

Education:

Three classes away from completing my bachelor’s degree in Leadership and Management           

Work Experience:

I have spent 30 years in law enforcement and 12 years in the Private Detective, Personal Protection and Security Consultant Industry.  Nearly 26 of those years were spent with the Maryland State Police.  Twenty two of those twenty six years were devoted to the Investigative Divisions throughout the State of Maryland .  I have supervised and managed several detective units and covert investigative units including, but not limited to Organized Crime.  In 2004, I  received a Gubernatorial appointment as the Manager of the Career Development Unit of the Maryland Transportation Authority Police Department.

Political Offices Held:   None 

Brief Biography:

I am a life long resident of Harford County .  I grew up in Street, and currently reside in Fallston with my wife of 23 years.  I have five wonderful children that are residents of Harford County .  I entered the filed of Law Enforcement in 1969 with the Maryland State Police.  I spent three and one-half years in uniform patrol, then transferred to the Investigative field and spent the next twenty-two years in the investigative field, supervising and managing detective units and covert investigative units throughout Maryland for the Maryland State Police.  I currently hold the position as Director/Manager of the Career Development Unit of the Maryland Transportation Authority Police Department.  

1.   Why are you running for this office?

I am concerned about the increase in criminal activity in Harford County over the last several years that affects not only my children and grandchildren but all citizens of Harford County .  I believe I have the background and experience to effectively manage and lead the Harford County Sheriff’s Office into the future. 

2.   If you are elected, what do you intend to do to improve the moral within the Sheriff’s office?

Many times Morale is a perception by many.  I intend to work with and support the Deputies each and every day.  I will attend Roll Calls from time to time and ride with the Deputies on Patrol.  I will fight for  salary increases benefits for the Deputies and Correctional Officers to make sure we remain competitive with other law enforcement and Correctional Officers.

3.   What do you intend to do to deal with the existing gang problem in Harford County ?

There are many reasons why gangs have existed in Harford County and thrived.  As they moved in most of the suburban communities were in denial.  Now they are here, we must partner with the schools, community organizations, churches, citizens and other government agencies and work to identify and prosecute violations of any criminal offense.  We must educate the youth of today in the middle schools regarding gangs before they are enticed to join the gangs.  We must rid the neighborhoods of gang graffiti.  Most of all we need to get the students and parents involved in the fight against gangs, making them a part of the solution. 

4. What in your mind is the biggest problem facing Harford County as it enters the twenty first century and how do you expect to correct this problem?

The biggest problem facing Harford County as it enters the twenty first century is the rapid growth and with this comes the increase in criminal activity.  All government agencies and community groups must work together on the growth issue and assist law enforcement in reducing crime.  We must be able to feel safe and secure in our homes, neighborhoods, shopping area and workplace.