Lewis Blanchard has announced he’s no longer in the running to become Burke County’s next sheriff.
In a news release sent out Wednesday night Blanchard said:
“Following careful consideration and reflection since the recent primary election, I am announcing my decision to end my campaign for Sheriff of Burke County. The primary election outcome shows strong support for the current Sheriff’s Office and Sheriff Alfonzo Williams. After reviewing the results and consulting with many of you since then, I have concluded that now is not my time to run.”
Lewis Blanchard Law Enforcement Career
Blanchard has had a long career in law enforcement.
Most recently, he has served as Chief Deputy of the Burke County Sheriff’s Office, the second-in-command.
Blanchard began his career in law enforcement as a campus police officer in the Columbia County School System in 1990. Since then, he has served and been promoted within the Taliaferro County and Richmond County Sheriff’s Offices.
In 1994, Blanchard was named “Public Safety Officer of the Year” for saving the lives of two students experiencing medical emergencies. He’s also been the recipient of several other awards including the “Deputy of the Year” award from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety in 2013.
Thank You from Lewis Blanchard
“I sincerely thank everyone who supported me throughout the campaign for their encouragement and contributions. Your support has been invaluable, and I assure you any funds donated to the primary campaign were used responsibly. I also contributed significant personal finances to this effort. Those who have donated towards this general election can expect a refund within the next week,” said Blanchard.
Blanchard said He Remains Committed to Service
“Running for Sheriff has been a remarkable experience. It has allowed me to connect with so many incredible individuals and to better understand the needs and hopes of our community. While my campaign may be coming to an end, my commitment to service remains unwavering. I will continue to support efforts that ensure the safety, well-being, and progress of our community. Though this chapter closes, I look forward to new opportunities to contribute positively.”
Statement from Burke County Sheriff Alfonzo Williams on Withdrawal from the Sheriff’s Race
“We want to assure the people of Burke County that I will continue to serve and keep our community safe, just as we have done for the past 7 1/2 years. We will continue to stand firm on our record of service, safety and solutions.
Our core values remain focused on the safety, service and solutions, as well as caring for our families, future, and finances. We are committed to engaging in the latest and best law enforcement practices to minimize liability and ensure the well-being of our community.
We will stay humble, focused, and committed to our service to mankind. The announcement will not change our campaign strategy. We need you again in November. We still have to reach and serve all of Burke County.”
Burke County Sheriff's Office
Mary Liz is the News Director and Co-Host of Augusta’s Morning News on WGAC. She spent 11 years as a News Director at an Indiana Radio Station. She has also worked as a former Police and Courts Reporter for The Republic Newspaper and Assistant Marketing Director of Merchants National Bank in Indianapolis. Mary Liz focuses most on local breaking news stories, feature stories on upcoming events, or community-service related organizations and the people who serve them. She has been with WGAC since 1995.
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