James Kevin Cheney first joined the Camden County Sheriff's Office in 1995. He is now running for head of the agency.
KINGSLAND, Ga. โ In a week, Georgia voters will head to the polls for the May primary election. In Camden County, voters will choose a candidate to face incumbent Sheriff Jim Proctor in November.
first coast news He met with all three candidates for sheriff.
James Kevin Cheney is a Republican on the ballot with Trevor Reddick. Mr. Cheney has served in public office for nearly 30 years and has dedicated his life to law enforcement.
“This is my mission. My entire adult life has been dedicated to public service,” Cheney said.
Chaney first started working for the Camden County Sheriff's Office in 1995. He spent part of that time with his DEA in Brunswick before becoming a major in Camden County. He left the sheriff's office last year, realizing it was time for new leadership.
“Sheriff Proctor is a good sheriff. He really is. He's a good guy. But he's going in a different direction,” Cheney said.
Cheney said he was not satisfied with the way recent controversial incidents were handled, including a fatal crash last year and violence between prison staff and inmates.
“Over the years, some training has been lacking and some issues have arisen. And it's not just the trainer's effort, it's just the leader's lack of effort. '' Cheney said.
Cheney believes part of the problem stems from a lack of transparency and accountability at the top. He wants to change the culture within the agency by giving employees the opportunity to grow and invest in their careers.
“If you want to go to federal or state government, absolutely use this as a stepping stone to get in. And let's give you what you need to be street smart to get up to the state or federal level. . It's a career path for them,” Cheney explained.
If elected, Cheney plans to work with county commissioners to build a new jail and bring in a risk management team to evaluate improvements. He also wants to focus on employee mental health to help lawmakers feel more supported.
“I've walked in the shoes of men and women in law enforcement, and when I come into office, I know what they go through when a major incident or something happens.”
The primary election is May 21, 2024. Click here for voter information.