This is not a logical step in my career. At-large candidates: Democrats Sabrina Coone-Godfrey, Deanna Kaplan, Kimberly Stone and Richard Watts, all of Winston-Salem; Libertarian Regina Garner of Winston-Salem; Republicans Sarah Absher,. He says he will be running as a Republican candidate. He said there are some safety improvements needed. With six deputies on duty, that will allow one each in Highlands and Nantahala with the remainder covering the rest of the county. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1972 to 1992, retiring a second time from his civilian career, he had more than 22 years of experience serving in a variety of law enforcement positions. I was promoted to Sergeant in 2016, and just recently promoted to Lieutenant over Civil process and Courthouse Security. He said he decided to run because he wants to be part of moving the the office forward. Right now, we are trying to work with the county and schedule a time to have this done.. Id be happy if they had a term limit.. Like Jones, Holbrooks said getting courthouse security up to speed would be one of his early priorities. He have served as a law enforcement officer since 2005, first with the Highlands Police Department and presently with the Macon County Sheriffs Office, totaling over 17 years. Sheriff Robbie Holland, who is retiring this year, told BPR that he would be happy if any of the current officers were elected. Among the sheriffs retiring in Western North Carolina who will leave big shoes to fill is Macon County's Robert Holland, who has served in that position for almost two decades. 86 SUMMIT DR FRANKLIN, NC 28734 We need to make sure we have a secure courthouse and a secure jail or were going to have big problems.. TBD 11/09/2021 Chris Browning for Macon County Sheriff - Campaign Launch It's official! Holbrooks noted that he has experience far beyond just encounters during patrol. It's Official, There's A New Sheriff (candidate) In Town. The many be new to Macon County, but they are tried, and true methods used in most areas in the country. He worked for Western Carolina University Police for almost 14 years before moving on to work at the Jackson County Sheriff's Department. Bryson is the proud father of four daughters and in 2019 became a grandfather for the first time. They were never stationed out there. But Im not working in that system. They want someone who will allow them to go out and do their job and support them in doing their job, he said. My pride is my family as I am a dedicated father of three young children that attend the Highlands School where my wife, Sarah, serves as the Vice Principal and is finishing her 12th year in the MCS system. I felt that the only way to ensure these concerns were addressed properly was to no longer sit on the sidelines. Yet, the fundamentals of community-based policies and a passion to do what is right must remain constant. We have to start with the kids, he said. There are five GOP candidates on the ballot: Bob Cook, Brent Holbrooks, Dereck Jones, Chris Browning. Its another way to reach people.. Shortly after Ashe was elected sheriff in 2002, Gunnels left "because of the politics involved." Chatham County (locally / t t m / CHAT-m) is a county located in the Piedmont area of the U.S. state of North Carolina.As of the 2020 census, the population was 76,285. He would like to add a body scanner to check for drugs or weapons coming into the jail and repurpose some positions to add another person per shift. No Democrat is running for sheriff in Graham County. But with the amount of drugs in this town, we should be seeing busts every week. Its not a want, its a need for the county and long-term its going to save money, he said. It was unique that he was my mentor when I was just 11 to 12 years old, and now hes my boss, Bryson said. In 2010, I transferred from road Corporal to Corporal over Civil Process and Courthouse Security. Jones: I have spoken to many residents across the county who share the same concerns as the Nantahala community whether they live there or not. Clay Bryson Wednesday, April 27, 2022. My wife Ariel and I have been married since 2014 and currently reside in the Cullasaja Community of Macon County. He also wants to reintroduce a cadet program similar to the one he participated in as a young man when Sheriff Holland was his mentor. Jones graduated Franklin High School in 2000, Southwestern Community College in 2008 with an Associate of Arts degree, and Western Carolina University in 2012 attaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice. Full time position - Macon County Sheriff's Department Posted 07/06/2021 Notice of Employment Deputy Sheriff The Macon County Board of Commissioners is accepting applications for a Deputy Sheriff to work at the Macon County Sheriff's Office in Oglethorpe, Georgia. Bryson: Having the unique advantage of experiencing first-hand the multitude of ways law enforcement serves Macon County, I promise to lead the Macon County Sheriffs Office with experience and integrity to best serve the community as Macon Countys next Sheriff. The upkeep of the building., I have a deep commitment to our next generation of our youth, Holbrooks said. Candidates were asked to provide a short bio and were asked the same questions. Bob Cook said he isnt running for sheriff as a career move. He wants to see officers more involved with the countys youth through community programs and youth sports. Throughout my career with the Sheriffs Office. During that time, he says he has seen from the outside how the Sheriffs Office operates and has a general idea of how theyre doing things. I know how it affected me as a young man, he said. This week is Part I of the sheriff's candidate profiles with Clay Bryson, Bob Cook and Dereck Jones. In January 2005 Bryson received his first promotion within the agency and has spent the last 21 years working in various capacities and now serves as Captain over Patrol. You need somebody that has experience in this field., He wants to partner with federal agencies such as the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Throughout my career, I served in many roles within the Sheriffs Office, first as a patrol deputy. She holds a masters degree in international journalism from the City University of New York and earned a double major from UNC-Chapel Hill in religious studies and political science. So when I go in, Im going in with a fresh, clear head looking at the problems we have, he said. In-house training is helpful in retention as well. Macon Countys rural nature, paired with geographical challenges puts the outlying areas of the county just as Nantahala and Burningtown at a disadvantage. I returned back as road patrol officer and shortly thereafter, I was promoted to Corporal. The only elections here in Western North Carolina are runoffs. I am pleased to say that the academy did a lot of good for me because I moved back to Macon County eager to pursue a career in law enforcement and was very focused on attaining my goals. If they have a question either myself or my staff will answer them. Bryson said more must be done on the enforcement end as well and wants to have a task force including the Sheriffs Office and the Franklin and Highlands police departments. Candidate Chris Browning Clay Bryson Bob Cook Brent Holbrooks Dereck E. Jones Incumbency information for this election was not available. Eventually, Cook found his way to Macon County. Crime has gotten so much worse, but we are doing so much. While each election they hear promise after promise from those running or currently serving, this is the first time I have had the opportunity to make those promises. When it comes to recruiting new officers, Cook plans to visit classes during the law enforcement training academy here and in nearby areas. Six counties in the westernmost part of North Carolina elected new sheriffs in the primary election. There are those that you arrest, and when they get in the jail setting, we need to make sure we have the adequate resources for them, he said. I worked the road, and when working the road, you have to know the ins and outs of the drug trade, he said. We have to get better doing this patrol thing, he said. The number one thing were going to do right off the bat is were going to go after the community drug dealers, he said. Im very approachable. Its ridiculous.. He says increasing community patrols will be important in curbing the drug issues as well as other criminal activity. Weve got to do what we can and deal with them appropriately when they get here.. Macon County Beekeepers will hold their Bee School, Saturday, February 11 and Saturday, February 25, 2023 from 9:00 a.m. 1 month ago NC 4-H Camps Selected to Participate in NC State Crowdfunding Campaign Long-time sheriff Robert Holland announced his retirement in June 2021; he was first elected to the office in 2002. Answer from candidate 1 After 20 years of doing things the same way its time for a whole different approach and attitude.. I spoke to a MCSO Street supervisor and asked what it would take to get coverage into those areas. While he said he wants to reorganize the department and shrink it down to something more fiscally manageable, he also wants to increase patrols to certain outlying areas, such as Otto and Cowee. It just happens to be a political position, but I am elected by the people and always for the people. He said having the K9 units work closely with the narcotics division allows the department to better respond to drug related calls and investigations. We have an academy in our backyard, we need to be utilizing that as much as possible, he said. It just happens to be a political position, but I am elected by the people and always for the people. I want to talk to them and find out what they need., He wants to increase patrol coverage to cover all parts of the county. In Macon County Republican primary, Brent Holbrooks defeated Dereck Jones by just 54 votes, or .74% (32.31% to 31.57%). I want them to see these are real people.. Brent Holbrooks was the top vote getter. The K-9 Officers would be stationed in a zone that would enable them to be mobile in the event of a requirement for their services. My number one priority to the citizens of Macon County if elected as your next Sheriff, is to protect you and your families with the same vigilance I protect my own. I still have the love for reaching out and helping others.. I enrolled in Basic Law Enforcement Training at Southwestern Community College in the Fall of 1999 to begin my career and on April 11, 2000, On my 21st birthday, I took my Oath of Office with the Macon County Sheriffs Office. The people in Nantahala want to know someone is close by so they dont have to wait an hour.. Following is Part II of the sheriff's candidate profiles featuring Brent Holbrooks and Chris Browning. The Macon County Sheriff's Office takes a proactive approach to law enforcement--focusing on working WITH the public and preventing crime before it happens. No Democrats were on the ballot so this primary decides who will be the next Sheriff in the County. In addition to his law enforcement experience Holbrooks said his personality and passion for getting to know the public will be a benefit he brings to the office if elected. The five candidates are Bob Cook, Brent Holbrooks, Dereck E. Jones, Chris Browning and Clay Bryson. Any race decided less than a percentage point can head to a recount if requested. Bryson attends Community Bible Church in Highlands and is an active member of the community. Clockwise from top left: Brent Holbrooks, Dereck Jones, Bob Cook, Clay Bryson. Posted at 01:41h . I left in 2004 to learn a new trade, but I knew that I would return to the law enforcement; and I did just that in 2008. Its the highest liability position, and during the last three and a half years, Ive had the opportunities administratively to work on the budget with the chief deputy, Jones said. 4) If you were not running for office, which of the other candidates would you vote for and why? It's not a new car just big thoughts on planet Earth, Look up! Cody Moore has officially announced his candidacy for the 2022 election . He wants to have six deputies working per shift including a K9 unit on a regular patrol shift. They are often the first faces our youngest community members meet and may be the first law enforcement officers our children encounter. Theres going to be a learning curve for everybody, he said. This is evidenced by my direct involvement in our schools, churches and as my passion as a coach and volunteer.. During interviews and appearances at several recent forums, all five candidates agree the drug problem is the number one issue facing the county. DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - A new candidate is now in the running for Macon County Sheriff. Absolutely for more bed space. Bryson: The drug tragedy in Macon County continues to grow; drug dealers are advancing quicker than law enforcement resources can evolve and it seems like we are always one step behind. They wanted a change in leadership. The drug problem in Macon County and surrounding areas is epidemic. I believe it is imperative as Sheriff to visit these departments and the various community clubs throughout Macon County on a regular basis to bolster community relations and hear from citizens about what needs to be done and how we can better serve the county. rowan county nc mugshots 2020 27 Feb. rowan county nc mugshots 2020. Questions for the Macon County Sheriff candidates. And I am confident that one of the most important ways of doing that is to continue fighting the war on drugs. I have become known over the years as a person that listens carefully to what people have to say.. Browning served in the U.S. Air Force and spent five years working as a road deputy in Macon County before operating his own businesses for the past 17 years. And I am confident that one of the most important ways of doing that is to continue fighting the war on drugs. My wife, Sarah, a Macon County School Assistant Principal, and I invite you to learn more about our family and community perspectives by openly encouraging a dialogue between us. Sheriff Robbie Holland, who is retiring this year, told BPR that he would be happy if any of the current officers were elected. Bryson: As the new Captain over patrol, I have gotten a crash course in the struggles our agency faces to cover all 500 miles of Macon County. At our inception 20 years ago, we chose to be different. In our spare time, we enjoy spending time outdoors and with our family. OFFICE OF SHERIFF STATE-BY-STATE ELECTIONS INFORMATION STATE Elections Division Website State Elections Division Sheriffs' Election Info No. I want to see the best for Macon County and feel that with my extensive experience, education, leadership and communication skills, I am the candidate that will move this agency forward. He also wants to provide officers more training on highway interdiction and assign deputies with canine support to work Highway 441. In 2017, once again it was promised they would get some officers out there for coverage and to this day, the only time they get a patrol unit out there is in response to a call for service. The SROs are vigilant; they keep their eyes open, he said. Born and raised in Newton, Iowa, Cook joined the Navy in 1972 and served until 1992 as a personnel specialist. As a father, my goal has always been to protect them, love them, and defend them to the best of my ability. I will not edit, change, or omit anything. I have a totally different vision of anybody thats working there now., He said after 20 years with one administration, its time for a change. Do we need to add on to our facility? He said the Sheriffs Office must continue to help educate the community about drug and substance abuse and he wants to see more mental health and rehabilitation resources available. Holbrooks touted his experience coming face-to-face with the drug trade. As I embrace this journey to become your Sheriff, I do so knowing that together we can make a difference. This is one of the most frequently mentioned areas that citizens are unhappy with whether it is with drugs or property crimes. I take great pride in building personal and professional relationships here in Macon County, he said, adding that he is committed to the youth and believes he can make a difference in Highlands, Nantahala and other communities throughout the county. His three-prong approach to the problem includes education, enforcement and rehabilitation. Holbrooks wants to foster a positive work culture within the department and continue to advocate for competitive pay. Beasley and Budd both won in Macon County with Beasley receiving 686 votes (58.48 percent) and Budd getting 3,588 (53.34 percent) The unofficial primary election totals with all precincts reporting. To win, a candidate must get at least 30 percent of the vote plus one. The North Carolina Child Fatality Task Force (Task Force) has submitted its 2023 Annual Report to Governor Cooper and the NC General Assembly. I have deep commitment to all Maconians and to our youth. BPR explains some of the objections. He wants to see officers involved in community events and a time for people to sit down with officers and share what their needs are. A dog is the number one tool in the war on drugs, he said. I have served as a detention officer, deputy sheriff, corporal/field training officer, Special Response Team, patrol sergeant, juvenile investigator, criminal investigator, lieutenant, and currently captain jail administrator who has overseen a budget of at least $2.5 million and was tasked with updating the detention center policies and procedures in 2019, said Jones. 5) Any closing words you want to say to voters. The transition period will be so important, he said. Cook: While each area can be improved upon, the Investigations area can use some improving. I have stated before and will state it again, the agency will be reorganized and all areas of the county will have adequate coverage at no additional cost to the taxpayer. I went around with a captain when we were looking at securing the courthouse with metal detectors and a lot of research went into what we needed and how we could organize and implement the program, he said. This proactive approach, outside of the day-to-day in-school role of an SRO will increase the responsibility of SROs to be entire community representatives. The way we get around that is the education of our youth, he said. He sees the top issues facing the countys law enforcement as drugs, patrol coverage, the perception of good old boys running the county and a lack of trust by citizens. This isnt something that I take lightly, as I have been preparing for this day for many years.. Im a husband, a father, but most importantly Im a Christian. Check your voter registration status Learn about registering to vote Contact your county board of elections Common Cause NC This is where I grew up; where my children and grandchildren are growing up. The candidates to replace Holland bring a variety of experience. They may not be driving straight up 441 but instead following one of the many backroads in and out of the county. I intend on installing a drug tip hot line and making the supervisor over narcotics responsible to responses to the complaints. DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) - Macon County Sheriff Jim Root has announced he will run for reelection in 2022. These things, Im very passionate about. I will press for community-related policies that prompt our Deputies to work with other stakeholders as role models so that, together, our investment in the younger generation yields solid and measurable results. Extreme aggressiveness on the drug problem, thats the number one problem, he said. 0. I was the first detective in North Florida to investigate food stamp fraud.. Official community group for the Macon County NC Sheriff's Election. To submit a listing for consideration, click here . 1) Give me a brief bio. While the county also makes money housing inmates from other counties, Browning said if a facility were built to federal code, the county could be paid to house federal inmates. You can chose to answer all of the questions, one or two of the questions, or none of the questions. Jones said that while he understands sheriff is a political position, he is a deputy before hes a politician, and thats the way hed intend to run the office. Macon County Sheriff candidates Jon L. Butts, Jim Root, and Tony "Chubby" Brown all lieutenants with the sheriff's office address the crowd during the NAACP Decatur Branch's. Please post about new candidates running, your candidate, opinions and talking points. Throughout his career, Bryson has served in many roles within the Sheriffs Office, first as a patrol deputy. He joined the Navy in August 1972 during the Viet Nam War and remained in the Navy until August 1992 during the Gulf War. since taking the oath of office on his 21st birthday in 2000. Cook believes that it will take someone from outside MCSO to fix it and noted that hes the best candidate to address the issues facing the community. Box 629, Waynesville, NC 28786 828.452.4251. It absolutely needs to be replaced, but we need to plan for the future.. He said by reaching kids at an early age, you can begin sowing the mindset of giving back to community. He also plans to create a task force with assistance from surrounding counties to perform undercover work and set up drug buys. Current Candidate List for Macon, Jackson, and Swain Counties: Macon County: Board of Commissioners District 1: Don Wilis- Republican John Shearl- Republican Board of Commissioners District 2: Ronnie Beale- Democrat Betty Cloer Wallace- Democrat Gary Shields- Republican Richard Lightner- Republican Danny Antoine- Republican Finally, I will be a dedicated public servant, ensuring that your message of what matters most has standing within the Sheriff s Office.. Jones said the jail was built in 1999 and by 2005 was already reaching capacity. The Smoky Mountain News is a wholly private corporation. The goal is to make it better for everybody in this county., Cook said improvements need to be made to the existing jail and eventually the county will need a new facility. Brent Holbrooks said his career in law enforcement was inspired by his father and grandfathers decades of service to Macon County. But you also have to have something for them to look to, benefits and treating people right, he said. He said when people dont get a response it leads them to think there is something to hide. It will be so uncomfortable and so unprofitable they will want to go someplace else.. Chris seeks to restore faith and trust in the Macon County Sheriff's Office through service to the community built on the core values of honesty, leadership, and integrity. Network Menu. As your Sheriff, I will be a problem-solver, dedicated to workplace, community and family balance. Many of you already know me, my personality, and my character through our personal interactions over the years. 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