To the Editor:

The Constitution of the Commonwealth of Virginia establishes the Office of sheriff.

The sheriff is the chief law enforcement officer for the jurisdiction. Among his other responsibilities, the sheriff is the keeper of jail, responsible for court security, server of the legal process and the steward of public trust.

As my tenure in office draws to a close, I want the people who have supported me to know who I support as the next sheriff. I have known Jack Stutts since he was a young boy, riding his bicycle up and down the streets of Capron.

I was there the first day he was sworn in as a deputy sheriff. I have watched his progress through the ranks in the Southampton County Sheriff’s Office until he has reached his present position of chief deputy.

Each time Jack has moved up in the office, he has been given more responsibility, and each time, Jack has stepped up to take responsibility, exceeding all expectations. Jack has the experience, the education and the integrity to be the sheriff of Southampton County and the City of Franklin.

As important as these attributes are, Jack has the leadership ability to guide the sheriff’s office as it meets the changes of the future. Maintaining the high quality of life our community enjoys will be well protected under Jack’s leadership. I have pledged my support to Jack Stutts.

I ask each of you to join me and vote for the next sheriff of Southampton County and the City of Franklin, Jack Stutts.

Vernie W. Francis Jr.
Southampton County sheriff