The Adams County Democratic Committee is appalled by the shocking image posted on social media by Adams County Sheriff James Muller on Saturday, June 14. The image featured an apparently bloodied vehicle with the implication that it had plowed through a group of citizens demonstrating their First Amendment right of assembly. The post appears to condone, and thereby incite, politically motivated violence.
Sheriff Muller’s action violates his duties, as listed on the Adams County Sheriff’s Office website: “To provide first-class professional, dignified, and courteous service to the citizens of the county. [to] serve with integrity and distinction and [a duty to] uphold the trust of the public we serve.”
Sheriff Muller’s action proves he no longer represents the people who voted for him and is not a role model for his department. He has shown disrespect for the citizens of Adams County.
We are disappointed in the public statement from two of the Adams County Commissioners. The statement does not condemn the actions of the sheriff nor provide any repercussions for those actions.
The Adams County Democratic Committee demands that Sheriff Muller immediately offer a public apology, not only to the citizens present on Saturday, June 14, but to every citizen who has ever participated in a rally to express opinions and beliefs.
We demand his immediate resignation. Sheriff Muller has forfeited his right to remain in office until the end of his term.
If Sheriff Muller refuses to resign, we demand the Adams County Commissioners and the Court of Common Pleas to explore all avenues to sanction Sheriff Muller and help quell the spread of this violent ideology within his department.
Marcia Wilson, Chair
Adams County Democratic Committee
