Sutton seeking re-election to sheriff’s office

Sheriff Dave Sutton announces his candidacy for his fifth term as sheriff of Coffee County. He thanks the citizens of Coffee County for supporting him through his four terms as sheriff.

The bonding with the citizens and city, state and federal law enforcement agencies has enabled the sheriff’s office to deal with numerous challenges. We have been challenged with devastating natural disasters, a tornado and flood that no one could have imagined. We’ve faced drug problems which in turn cased more crime such as burglaries and thefts.

With help of my staff and concerned citizens, we have attacked these problems head on. We have modernized the sheriff’s office with the construction of a new, secure office facility and and up-to-date records management system.

A great deal of money has been obtained through grants providing our deputies with up-to-date equipment. Most recently, our office was able to obtain a high-tech laser device to identify illegal drugs providing on scene analysis and eliminating possible exposure to dangerous chemicals.

We have worked with the Coffee County Board of Education to promote positive relationships with law enforcement and provide a school resource officer to all county schools. During our time in office we have established, for the first time, 24-hour patrol coverage allowing greater response time for all citizens.

I plan to go forth in making Coffee County the safest county to the best of my ability. I will continue to strive to eliminate all forms of illegal drug activity. As to date, my office, along with the ALEA Regional Drug Task Force and the 12th Judicial Drug Task Force, has made over 2,000 drug arrests in this county. Because of these arrests, crime rates and other offenses have decreased.

I understand an accept the huge task before us. I will run on my record and I’ll make no promises except to provide for the safety and welfare of all citizens of Coffee County.