HOODIES & SWEATSHIRTS 

Throughout my career, I have served under four different Sheriffs and one Chief. This experience provided me with the opportunity to observe firsthand the strengths and weaknesses of multiple administrations. I learned what practices were effective and which were not. Serving under a particular leader did not mean that I automatically shared their agenda. While I witnessed leadership decisions that I supported, I also observed many that I did not. Through these experiences, I focused on influencing those under my supervision by leading with integrity, morals, and compassion, always striving to move forward and positively impact the community we served.

In law enforcement, we often encounter individuals on the worst days of their lives. This reality will always present challenges. Our responsibility extends beyond enforcing the law; it includes listening, comforting, and showing compassion whenever possible. I believe law enforcement has, in some instances, shifted away from its foundational role as a steward of the community and risks being perceived as an occupying force. Our core mission must remain rooted in service, trust, and respect—values that must also be applied when interacting with individuals who have found themselves on the wrong side of the law.

As peace officers, we have a duty to protect not only the citizens of our county but also those who visit our community. We are equally obligated to uphold both the United States Constitution and the Constitution of our state. As a current Criminal Justice teacher, I am deeply committed to educating others about the inalienable civil rights granted to us by our founding fathers. I pledge that every Deputy under my leadership will know and understand these rights and, most importantly, how to properly apply them in the performance of their duties. I am committed to employing Deputies who pursue cases rooted firmly in fact and supported by a strong likelihood of conviction.

I began my career as a corrections officer, where I quickly learned that respect is earned by setting aside ego and treating all individuals with dignity. While working in the old jail, I encountered some of the most hardened criminals, an experience that taught me invaluable lessons in leadership, accountability, and fairness.

Over more than 20 years in law enforcement, I have served alongside many dedicated men and women whom I respected and valued. Unfortunately, I have also encountered a small number who tarnished the badge—individuals who ultimately removed themselves from the profession. I have no tolerance for corruption in any form of law enforcement. I firmly believe that we must hold ourselves to a higher standard than the general public. I have personally prosecuted officers who violated the law, resulting in the loss of their law enforcement certification, and I have terminated others for breaching the trust of the community they were sworn to serve. This level of accountability has not occurred often enough under the current administration.

I will bring this experience, knowledge, and commitment to ethical leadership to the Claiborne County Sheriff’s Office, leading it in a manner that restores trust and ensures the citizens of this county can truly be proud of their Sheriff’s Office.

Thank you,

Stephen Hurley

Candidate for Sheriff