Nothing to hide

By TED SULLIVAN ( Contact )   Tuesday, October 6, 2009 - 5:03 p.m.

It must have been embarrassing for the Rock County Sheriff’s Office to arrest one of its own deputies on a disorderly conduct charge.

Yet Chief Deputy Barbara Tillman and others were open with me about how they handled the case.

They told me about the investigation, suspension and conditions the deputy must meet before returning to work.

They knew anything they shared with me would result in a news story, possibly resulting in criticism and shame.

However, they realized people have a right to know what goes on in a public office.

They also wanted to send a message to their deputies and the community that they won’t tolerate illegal behavior.

It can sometimes be difficult to conduct interviews such as this one, but the sheriff’s office felt it had nothing to hide.

Reporters always appreciate that.

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