Raymond Ezell

Experience: Retired polygraph examiner for U.S. Postal Service; former criminal investigator for postal service, B.S. in Criminology

From application: “(The sheriff) must possess unquestionable integrity and honesty.”

Ken Hollifield

Experience: Former highway patrolman and sheriff’s deputy; currently a truck driver

From application: “I will see that my door will always be open to everyone and I will attend community meetings and listen to the concerns of the people in each community.”

Bobby Suttles

Experience: Current chief deputy and 14-year employee of sheriff’s department; former Waynesville police officer

From application: “Selecting me to finish Sheriff Alexander’s term will...provide a seamless transition with no turmoil or disruption.”

Albert Allen

Experience: Former highway patrolman; currently chief of security at Haywood Regional Medical Center

From application: “My mission as Sheriff would be to involve the residents, county and business leaders...so that the Office of the Sheriff could become more proactive in their enforcement and protection of people’s lives and property.”

Russell Gilliland

Experience: Current Maggie Valley police officer; formerly owner/operator of HVAC Electrical Company

From application: “I always knew that I wanted to serve the community in the law enforcement capacity, and in 2005 I was able to enter back into the field. I take pride in my work, especially in terms of the compassion and integrity that I bring to the field.”