Sam Jones is campaigning for change within the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office
A career military and law enforcement officer is running for sheriff of Habersham County. Sam Jones announced his candidacy this week on social media. He’s running against incumbent Joey Terrell who is seeking a fourth term.
In his announcement, Jones says he served as a military policeman in the U.S. Marines. He then went to work for the Georgia Department of Corrections and, later, the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office.
“Throughout my adult life, it has been an honor and privilege to serve this great nation, the State of Georgia, and Habersham County,” Jones says in his announcement. “Over the last 20+ years of serving with the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office, I’ve been recognized and promoted by way of rank; quickly rising through the levels of leadership.”
In his time with the sheriff’s office, Jones has served as a detention officer, assistant jail administrator, uniform patrol officer, HEAT unit and patrol division supervisor. He also served as a narcotics investigator with the now-defunct Northeast Georgia Drug Task Force Unit (NEGDTF).
In his statement, Jones sets the stage for what could become a contentious campaign. He says “poor leadership abilities” and self-interest have led to constant staff turnover and the loss of qualified personnel at the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office.
“This ‘revolving door’ effect has cost our county taxpayers a tremendous amount in dollars, but more-so reducing the quality of service to be provided by the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office,” Jones says. “Negative morale is one of many sources that fuel the poor work habit cycle. This is troubling and has begun to directly impact Community Relations; damaging public perception and eliminating trust in HCSO.”
Jones says he believes “positive and progressive change” is needed in the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office. He adds that he’s committed to bringing the highest levels of “professionalism, integrity, dependability, and pro-active leadership” to the office.
Qualifying for the upcoming election begins March 2.
photo Facebook
