HANCOCK COUNTY, MS (WLOX) -
For the first time in 12 years, Hancock County voters will elect a new sheriff. WLOX.com asked Republican Ricky Adam and Democrat Eric Moran what they would bring to the county's top law enforcement job.
"I would appreciate if you'd consider me for your next sheriff of Hancock County," said Moran as he greeted a homeowner on the campaign trail.
He shared his law enforcement experience with the woman.
"I have over 12 years of law enforcement experience. I'm a United States Marine Corps veteran, I've been the president and vice president of numerous youth organizations."
Justice Court Judge Ricky Adam was doing the same thing on Tuesday.
"I think I bring something different to the table that we haven't had before my experience on the bench has gained me invaluable knowledge," said Adam.
Coming from different arms of the justice system is a point of contention.
"My opponent his experience is behind the judges seat he has no law enforcement experience out in the field. My experience will play a key role in our immediate success," said Moran.
Adam fired back, "The sheriff's job is not a job of strictly law enforcement. You have to be an administrator and a communicator. The days of kicking doors and serving warrants for the sheriff himself are gone."
Both candidates say if elected tackling Hancock County's drug problem will be a top priority.
"We're going to address the drug situation in Hancock County in a more aggressive manner. I plan on implementing a streets crime unit during critical hours. The streets crime unit will work hand in hand with the investigations department and the narcotics department," explained Moran.
Adam says he will stress community policing.
"The law enforcement can't do it by themselves. We have to have the help of every citizen in this county. We have 40,000 citizens. And if we got 400 crooks thieves and dopers, that's plenty. But, we will aggressively pursue them. But, at the same time, my people will be professional and courteous."
The voters will have the final say on Tuesday, November 8. WLOX News and WLOX.com will have the outcome of that race on election night.
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