Thomas Hodgson concedes Bristol County Sheriff's race to Democrat Paul Heroux
DARTMOUTH - Attleboro Mayor Paul Heroux (D) is settling into his stunning victory over Bristol County Sheriff Thomas Hodgson to be the county's top cop.
"I am tired, but I am glad that it is over," said Heroux in his hometown of Attleboro, Wednesday morning. "It was time for change. Just like five years ago when I knocked off the second longest serving mayor of Attleboro, it was time for change and people were ready."
Sheriff Hodgson called the loss disappointing and stood by his 25 years of work as Sheriff.
"We obviously thought that we were in a different position," said Hodgson. "We are disappointed of course."
Hodgson pointed out what he considered his top accomplishments during his tenure, including the team he built here.
"I have a great staff," said Hodgson. "Twenty-five years of you know when I came here it was not what it is today, and that is a true credit to them. We have been nationally accredited two times back-to-back at 100%."
Hodgson grew criticism for his work with former President Donald Trump. The sheriff visited the White House multiple times and held meetings with the president in the Oval Office.
But maybe the most criticism came in 2017, when Hodgson offered to send inmates from the Bristol County Jail to the southern border to help with construction of President Trump's wall.
Hodgson had the endorsement of outgoing Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker in this race, but not President Trump's
Hodgson would not answer if he believed his closeness to President Trump helped or hurt him in this election.
"I did work with the former President and never will apologize for doing that because I was in Washington when Barack Obama was there and nobody complained about it," said Hodgson.
Voters WBZ spoke with fell on both sides of the race. Many said they felt it was time for something new.
"We should have somebody new in there," said Brenda Gannon of Attleboro. "Someone with fresh ideas with something he can do."
Leeann Bergevine voted and said Hodgson's ties to President Trump played a role in her vote. "Sending inmates to build the wall. Just really outlandish things that should even be a thing," Bergevine said.
Heroux said his focus will be on reducing repeat offenders, building discharge plans, and improving correctional officer's working conditions.
He also pledged to only serve two terms as Sheriff, so long as voters choose him for a second.
Heroux will begin his first six-year term in January.
