Three ex-chiefs seek Clark County sheriff seat

Three former police chiefs are competing for the Clark County sheriff's office in Tuesday's general election. The race pits Democrat Tim Deeringer against Republican Kenny Kavanaugh and Independent Dwight Ingle. All three candidates served as chiefs of police in the region before entering the county race.

The vacancy stems from the primary election held earlier in October. Incumbent Sheriff Scottie Maples failed to secure the Republican nomination. The position carries extra weight for voters following the imprisonment of former Sheriff Jamey Noel. Noel is serving a 12-year sentence for stealing millions of dollars from taxpayers through fraud and misconduct.

Kavanaugh spent 30 years at the Jeffersonville Police Department. He held the position of chief for the final 10 years of that tenure. He plans to revive the merit commission to ensure it meets monthly. He also intends to rebuild the mayor's commission and launch a wellness and safety unit for officers.

"I want to introduce 21st century policing into the agency and take it further from where the previous administrations have," Kavanaugh said.

Deeringer retired from the Jeffersonville Police Department after nearly 30 years, including time as chief. He prioritizes community policing and training for mental health issues. He wants to restore the sheriff's office website and create a citizens advisory board. He stated his first action would be to review the budget.

"My big promise is the safeguard of taxpayers," Deeringer said. "That's why the first thing I want to do is look at the budget."

Ingle led the Clarksville Police Department for 20 years. He focuses on boosting morale and keeping the department professional. He plans to start a diversion program and donate his take-home pay to nonprofits such as Make-A-Wish and the Crusade for Children. He aims to bring credibility back to the jail.

"Bring accountability and credibility back to the jail," Ingle said.

Polls open at 6 a.m. on Tuesday, November 3, and close at 6 p.m. Voters will select the next sheriff in this three-way contest.