December 19, 2017
For what is believed the first time in modern history a woman has registered to run for Sheriff in Lawrence County. And she is proud of that fact.
Brittany Preston, 26, of Louisa signed up Monday to run on the Republican ticket in the May 22, 2018 Primary election. So far, she will face Louisa Police Chief Greg Fugitt and Sheriff’s deputy Chuck Jackson for the GOP nomination.
Two Democrats have also filed to run including Sheriff’s deputies Mark Wheeler and Mack Wilhite.
We asked Brittany for a statement about her decision to seek the office:
Why am I running for sheriff?
“…I’m running for a number of reasons. Yes I am a woman & the first to run for sheriff in our county. It makes me feel both happy & sad to say that I’m the very first. It’s 2017 and this is just now happening. I’m sure I can’t be the only woman in history to have this passion for law enforcement & our community. I want to inspire my daughter and all little girls to follow their dreams & be fearless! The reward will be well worth the effort.”
“…I’m proud to break this tradition & put my best foot forward! Since I was a little girl I have wanted to be Sheriff! My father would take me to the Martin Co. Sheriff’s office a few times a week to see his good friend and Sheriff at the time, Darriell Young. I was 4 years old when I received my first sheriff’s ID and badge.
“…In 2011, I became the mom of two beautiful twins, Sadie & Aiden. Aiden passed away from NEC when he was only 9 days old. Losing him changed me & made me realize just how short life is. I started living every day like it could be my last and a few years later I landed a position at BSRDC. The years I worked at the jail I realized that I had finally found my passion & the thing that I am extremely good at!
“…In a few months I will have a Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement associates degree (BSCTS). I am dedicated to law enforcement, community, and family! If I am elected as Sheriff I promise to always do my best & to be respectful, strong & driven! I won’t make promises I can’t keep & I will do my best to stop the rampant drug problem the county is faced with now.
“…I am running in this election for change!
I want to be a light to the community. I want to bring a woman’s perspective to a position not usually held by a woman and I want all little girls to follow their dreams, especially if they want to be Sheriff one day!”
