Although Election Day is still several months away, Wake County voters are beginning to hear how Democratic incumbent Willie Rowe and Republican challenger Kenny Blackwell envision the future of one of the state’s largest sheriff’s offices.
Blackwell, a longtime law enforcement officer, says the sheriff’s office needs to return to a more visible, patrol-oriented philosophy while rebuilding specialized investigative units and improving employee morale.
Rowe, who is seeking another term after decades with the Wake County Sheriff’s Office, points to community engagement, staffing improvements and expanded mental health initiatives as evidence that his administration is moving the agency in the right direction.
Blackwell calls for more deputies on the street
Blackwell, who grew up near Rolesville, has spent much of his adult life in law enforcement, serving as a Wake County deputy, U.S. Marshal and investigator with State Capitol Police…