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Erik A. Herbert
Erik A. Herbert

Herbert launches campaign for Niagara County Legislature

Thu, Feb 14th 2019 04:10 pm

North Tonawanda police officer and Marine Corps veteran Erik A. Herbert formally announced his candidacy for 7th District Niagara County Legislature. This includes the Gratwick Park area of North Tonawanda and a large portion of the Town of Wheatfield.

Herbert, 32, has worked as a police officer and SWAT team member in North Tonawanda since 2013. In 2017, he was the recipient of the department’s Life Saving Award when he saved the life of a six-week-old infant from choking. He is an active member in the department’s police union, where he serves as a spokesperson and media representative.

Herbert joined the United States Marine Corps in 2004 and served until he was honorably discharged in 2008. While on active duty, he served directly under the Bush administration as a guard for Marine One Helicopter Squadron. At the completion of his service, Herbert was honored at the White House by President George W. Bush for his distinguished service and received the Presidential Service Badge.

“I feel very fortunate to have been able to serve my country and now my community as a police officer. I look forward to continuing my community service as a county legislator,” Herbert said.

Herbert attended Niagara County Community College where he completed his associates degree. He then enrolled at Buffalo State College where he graduated with his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. During that time, Herbert owned and operated the Niagara County Mixed Martial Arts gyms, Victory MMA/WNY MMA. Herbert still practices mixed martial arts and is a multiple-time state and world champion.

In 2018, Herbert won a seat on the North Tonawanda School Board. In his time on the board, he has been a vocal advocate for increased school security and school resource officers. This year, Herbert and other board members approved NT’s first SRO.

“This was something I knew we needed to implement right away. We will not be complacent when it comes to the safety of our students and teachers,” Herbert said.

Herbert said he will bring technology and transparency into local government. He will be focused on educating residents on the roles and responsibilities of the legislature. He would like to see an increased use of social media as a source for residents to obtain reliable news, information, and to view county meetings on demand.

Herbert’s wife, Diana Herbert, is a full-time working mother and the owner and operator of the local business Empower Boutique. In addition to providing fashionable and affordable clothing options for women, Empower Boutique is involved in promoting inspirational stories of local women and supporting local charity efforts.

“It’s a team effort in our household. Diana supports me to the fullest extent and will be a very big part of my campaign and tenure as a legislature,” he said.

Erik and Diana have a 9-year-old son who attends the NT public school system. Herbert is a registered Independence Party member and will be seeking all available party lines for endorsement.

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