Schiff Responds to Viral Video Allegations in Heated Sullivan County Sheriff’s Race
A video that’s been making the rounds on Facebook has sparked controversy and political tension in Sullivan County just weeks before the Republican primary for sheriff. The video alleges an improper relationship involving a Sullivan County undersheriff, a former deputy, and an inmate—and suggests a cover-up.
The footage, posted in the group Behind the Scenes of Sullivan County Politics, compiles surveillance clips and recorded video calls, painting a picture of alleged misconduct inside the Sheriff’s Office.
In speaking with Radio Catskill, Schiff called the video "completely unfounded" and politically motivated. "This outrageous claim is being made without any evidence whatsoever," he said.
Schiff’s campaign said in a Facebook post that the video was “obtained without authorization and is pieced together, out of context,” noting that the District Attorney’s Office had already reviewed the matter and determined it had no merit.
According to Schiff, the video omits key facts. In one clip, the undersheriff is seen handing a bottle of DayQuil to a former deputy in his truck—something Schiff says happened during the height of the pandemic when the woman, a longtime family friend, wasn’t feeling well. In another part, she’s seen on a video call with an inmate, but Schiff says she was no longer employed by the department at that time.
The campaign's statement also criticized challenger Tim Dymond, accusing him of trying to sway voters with what Schiff described as a "wild conspiracy theory."
The former deputy, Schiff said, had come forward on her own, reporting that she had developed feelings for an inmate. She resigned shortly after. An internal review found no evidence of contraband or sexual misconduct, Schiff added.
Dymond has publicly called for an investigation, but Schiff insists the DA’s office already looked into the matter. No charges have been filed, and there’s been no indication of a formal investigation.
