Mike Loveday for Dent County Sheriff

To the citizens of Dent County, I, Mike Loveday, am announcing my candidacy for Dent County Sheriff in the upcoming 2024 election. For those I haven’t had the privilege to meet yet, I would like to briefly introduce myself. I’m a native of Dent County, married to my amazing wife, Destiny, and have three beautiful boys. I started my career in law enforcement with the Dent County Sheriff’s Office in 2009 and served there for 3 years. I then transferred to the Salem Police Department where I have served for the past 12 years. I have worked as a K-9 handler and moved up the ranks as a Corporal and now Sergeant. My vision is clear: maintain a fair, transparent and honest office. Uphold the constitutional rights of every citizen and ensuring Second Amendment protections. I will strive to provide the most professional services for criminal apprehension, drug/alcohol addiction and mental health preparedness. I believe the best years of law enforcement in Dent County are yet to come. I am not in this for money, or to build a retirement plan. I am passionate about the betterment of our community and dedicated to a future we can all be proud of. As Sheriff, I will lead the office into the future of law enforcement, working to be effective and efficient. I have four top priorities: Community Policing In this day and age, it is more important than ever for law enforcement officers and citizens to work together. It is the responsibility of each deputy to maintain a fair and respectful interaction with each citizen they encounter. Information from the citizens is the most effective way to deter and intercept crime. Central Communication Center: Currently, the Dent County Sheriff’s Office and Salem Police Department have two separate dispatch centers. This leads to communication error’s between agencies and slower response times in emergency situations. By combining the two centers, we can ensure more effective call handling. New equipment and softwares such as Next Gen 911 for the communication center will give 911 availability to every citizen (currently some residents are unable to connect to 911) Deputy Benefits: Our deputies and jail staff are some of the best in the state, I believe they should be compensated for such. I would work to implement pay increases across the board leaving nobody behind, as it takes everyone. I will also look into providing LAGERS retirement (a more beneficial package used across the state) which will help deputies enjoy life after this career, and will also help with deputy retention. I will make changes to ensure we have proper coverage of the county and seek to hire additional deputies to fulfill our recommended requirements. Lastly, I would take recommendations from deputies and jailers for modern uniforms and equipment. This would include over-carrier vest per request, as well as update body worn duty gear. K-9 Unit and Drug Enforcement: As a K-9 Handler, I realize the importance of having a K-9. K-9 units are essential in combatting the possession of illegal narcotics. K-9 units are important in the apprehension of fleeing felons and search and rescue efforts of missing persons. I look forward to speaking with the citizens of Dent County and encourage the citizens to reach out to me with any questions or concerns they may have regarding my candidacy for Sheriff of Dent County. Feel free to message me directly on Facebook with any questions or if you would like to donate. Thank you, Mike