CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Mecklenburg County Sheriff Garry McFadden defended his controversial tenure during a contentious debate Wednesday night, facing sharp criticism from three challengers over jail deaths, an ongoing investigation and his leadership style.
The hour-long debate hosted by WSOC-TV featured McFadden, who is seeking a third term, squaring off against former Chief Deputy Rodney Collins, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department Sgt. Ricky Robbins and former detention officer Antwain Nance. With no Republicans running, the March 3 Democratic primary winner will become the next sheriff.
An investigation into McFadden’s conduct dominated much of the discussion. Collins referenced what he called “the FBI investigation,” saying it “will yield certain results,” while Robbins mentioned State Bureau of Investigation involvement. The district attorney has requested an SBI investigation, and earlier this week a judge dismissed a separate petition seeking McFadden’s removal from office…