Downs Holds Kick-Off Campaign Fundraiser

, a Snellville Police Detective hoping to be elected sheriff of Oconee County in 2012, held a kick-off event over the weekend, according to a press release from his campaign.

About 250 supporters joined him at the on Hebron Church Road for a picnic.

Downs gave the following speech, according to the release:

"As the Sheriff of Oconee County I will bring a new generation of Law Enforcement leadership to the Sheriff's Department. Availability and transparency will be the cornerstone of my mission statement to every citizen of this county.

I will draw from my 13 years of experience working with three different law enforcement groups to help make the Oconee County Sheriff Department the kind of law enforcement agency we can be proud of. Crime rates are directly linked to the quality of law enforcement provided. I believe committed, professional trained officers are the core of our county's law enforcement system.

I came here today to seek your help and support and invite you to join me and our team of volunteers as we strive to improve our law enforcement department in Oconee County. With your support and endorsement, I know we can make this happen..."

Incumbent is seeking a sixth term in office. , a Madison County Sheriff's Office investigator, is also interested in the position. All three plan to run as Republicans.

The primary will be held on July 31. The will be held on Wednesday, May 23 beginning at 9 a.m. and close on Friday, May 25 at noon.

Check Oconee Patch often for coverage of all of the campaigns.