ADA, OK - We continue our coverage of Tuesday's sheriff elections in our area. In Pontotoc County, there are two candidates running for the office of Sheriff. Sara Humphrey spoke with both of them about their plans to improve their community.
There are two democratic candidates listed on the ballot for the Pontotoc County sheriff in this year's primary election.
Incumbent Sheriff John Christian has worked for the county since 1987 and is running for his second term as sheriff.
"Sometimes you have to go out there and get involved with it also as sheriff," Christian said. "I am proud of that fact that all my staff will call me and let me know what's going on, it doesn't matter what time it is I go and assist them."
Challenger Jason Teel is currently the Stonewall Police Chief. He said his thirteen years experience in law enforcement make him the best choice.
"I am proud of the fact that I am a public servant and I'm proud of the fact that people know they can count on me," Teel said.
Christian said since he was elected sheriff in 2008, there is no major crime that hasn't been solved and solved quickly.
"The last [murder suspect] hid out for a quite a while in the woods and we were able, with assistance from other agencies, to contain him and keep him contained to the area," Christian said. "Within, I believe, eight hours we had him in custody and sitting in the Pontotoc County Justice Center."
As sheriff, Teel said he would focus on the county's drug problem and develop a Chaplain program that teaches deputies to counsel people dealing with a crisis.
"I think if you introduce God into the healing and grieving process of any incident you come out a lot better than you did going into it," Teel said.
Teel said he's upgraded much of Stonewall's law enforcement equipment using grants and made the community safer.
Christian said one of his accomplishments is building the new Pontotoc County Justice Center without asking taxpayers for money.
"There is work to do," Christian said. "I just want people to get out and vote and make their choice and after tomorrow night we will see where we go from there."
"I think it's also important to tell people things that you will not do, along with all the things that you want to do and your plans," Teel said. "I will not forget that I answer to the citizens of this county."
PRIMARY ELECTION - June 26
Last day to register to vote . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Friday, June 1
Last time to request absentee ballot . . . . . . . . . Wednesday, June 20, 5 PM
Early voting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Friday, June 22, 8 AM - 6 PM
Saturday, June 23, 8 AM - 1 PM
Monday, June 25, 8 AM - 6 PM
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