Kirkland, Southards to face of for Swain Sheriff
David Southards
Sheriff's office candidates Democrat David Southards and Republican Brian Kirkland, with 1,279 and 656 votes respectively, will proceed to the November election. Both swept their field; Southards beat outDouglas "Tank" Anthony with 71.46% of the vote, while Kirkland surpassed Wayne Dover with 87.42%.
While Kirkland was appointed sheriff, not elected, he pointed to the reforms he’s brought over a few short months to that department. He’d like to continue conducting community outreach to strengthen residents’ ties with law enforcement and updating antiquated technology and procedures.
Southards prioritizes community policing above all else, especially in light of events with Swain County’s former sheriff. To him, this looks like investing a majority of the office’s resources toward rehabilitation and treatment rather than strictly punitive measures.
Check back with The Smoky Mountain News for full results and detailed analysis across Haywood, Jackson, Macon and Swain counties in our March 11 issue.
