Wilke to become next Haywood Sheriff

Private investigator, retired Army colonel, former Asheville police officer Bill Wilke will be sworn in as the first elected Republican sheriff in Haywood County since at least the early 1960s — if not ever — after a convincing victory Tuesday night.

Bryson, Wilke square off in highly anticipated Haywood sheriff race

After nearly 10 years in office, Haywood County Sheriff Greg Christopher announced his retirement in Mach 2021, giving prospective candidates more than a year to contemplate their campaigns. Almost immediately, five men from two parties stepped up, seeking to replace him.

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