Montgomery County Sheriff Jeffery Smith's career in law enforcement spans over three decades.
Tuesday night, he'll be dressed in uniform as an invitee to President Biden's State of the Union address. He was invited by New York Congresswoman Elise Stefanik.
“ When I got the phone call, I was shocked, surprised and honored,” said Sheriff Smith. “But I accepted immediately without a question."
The sheriff has been vocal about New York state's approach to gun legislation and bail reform, saying he supports the second amendment and the right to carry.
“We’re hoping to hear good messages tonight that support law enforcement in general right in and talk about funding the police and not defunding. Then we’re talking about doing good things to hold people accountable who break the laws.” he said. “You know things that support the second amendment; understand it that people who make bad decisions are the ones who are at fault and need to be held accountable, not necessarily the guns or the gun manufacturer."
Smith is hoping efforts at the federal level, led by Stefanik, will help in those bail reform efforts and law enforcement staffing shortages.
The SERVE Our Communities Act was introduced last month. It provides an incentive and federal funding for states to adopt policies that hold repeat offenders accountable and bolster public safety.
An increase in violence, including the May’s mass shooting in Buffalo where 10 people were killed sparked state legislation.
In New York that includes the expansion of eligibility requirements for concealed carry permit applicants, and identifying sensitive spaces where guns aren't allowed.
President Joe Biden signed the SAFER Communities Act in June; a bi-partisan legislation which aims to keep violence out of communities.
Smith adds there are other public safety concerns.
Reporter Emma Quinn: “What are we seeing in Montgomery County as far as public safety, what are you dealing with in the county?"
Sheriff Smith: “Any drug that we confiscate or any overdose that we experience on our streets, most of the time are drugs that have been laced with fentanyl. All those things are a part of the picture, the criminal justice picture and any support for those things will certainly help.”