Somerset County Sheriff Primary Candidate: William Parenti

SOMERSET COUNTY, NJ — William "Bill" Parenti is one of two Republicans running for Sheriff in the contested Somerset County primary election being held on Tuesday, June 4.

Parenti and Tim Pino are both vying for the Republican ticket while Arthur Arkins and Darrin Russo are both vying for the Democratic ticket.

All four candidates are vying for their party's nomination on June 4 and then will move on to the general election on Nov. 5 for the lone sheriff spot.

William "Bill" Parenti

Description:

My family and I live in Watchung. I am 59 years old and have been married for 31 wonderful years to Eileen and have two children Danielle and Billy, Jr.

What experience do you have that would help you serve?

I am the Chief of Police in the 6th largest municipality in Somerset County, where I’ve served for the last 14 years. Under my leadership, North Plainfield Police Department "NPPD" became the first accredited police agency in Somerset County. Proudly, this March, we became only the
second agency in the State to receive re-accreditation for a fourth time. On the exit interview the assessment team stated that "your leadership resonates through the department and that North Plainfield PoliceD epartment should be used as a model for all police agencies."

Furthermore, as a Chief of Police, I have done the hard work to implement and manage municipal budgets, and that experience uniquely positions me to be a steward for both our law enforcement officers and our taxpayers.

I was recognized in 2017 by New Jersey’s Attorney General for outstanding achievements and innovation in community policing. I’ve also been recognized by the National Latino Peace Officers Association for my excellent organizational and leadership skills for my work with the Latino
community.

I’m proud that my fellow police officers have repeatedly turned to me for leadership in police organizations: I’ve been the President of the Somerset County Association of Chiefs of Police for 13 years, I’ve served as President of the North Plainfield PBA Local 85, and I served as the President of the New Jersey Association of Chiefs of Police from 2016-2017 and I remain an active member of the executive board working on the current issues facing Law Enforcement.

What issues would you like to address in Somerset County?

I believe we can’t arrest our way out of the opioid crisis. I’d like to expand upon the program started by Sheriff Frank Provenzano. We would start a re-entry program. The multi-prong plan would include visits from counselors, phone access to a counselor for those weak moments, access
to support groups and it would make sure that they have access monthly to the medications they need that will prevent them from feeling the effects of the opioids. This plan is truly a win-win. I want them to get their life back, reconnect with their family and friends, become productive members of society and save the taxpayers money by ending the vicious cycle of opioid users being released from jail and re-arrested.

I know how to work with the unions to save taxpayer money, having dealt with both the PBA and the Teamsters for more than 14 years. My relationships with police unions will be play an important role, as I plan to meet with them regularly to find ways to save money, improve their quality of life and reduce grievances.

My time as President of the Somerset County Association of Police Chiefs has earned me the respect of agency heads in county government and equips me with relationships and respect necessary to work together and make tough decisions as we develop ideas and programs for shared services – which means real savings for taxpayers.

Why should voters vote for you?

I have the proven leadership that is required to be an effective Sheriff. I’ve served in law enforcement for 36 years – 14 of those as the Chief of Police in North Plainfield. My leadership has been recognized by leaders in North Plainfield, by police chiefs across Somerset County, and across New Jersey. I’m proud to have been recognized by my peers with multiple letters of commendation for credible acts performed in the line of duty.

My experience equips me with the necessary leadership qualities, ideas, and fiscal stewardship to be your Sheriff on day one.

— (If you are a candidate and would like to participate in the profile, email alexis.tarrazi@patch.com)

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