Retired chief and 27-year law enforcement veteran Jeff Perry announced on Wednesday that he is running for Dawson County Sheriff in 2020.

Perry posted his official announcement on his Facebook page, “Jeff Perry for Sheriff” July 3.

“I am excited to announce my campaign for Sheriff. My family and I have deep-roots here in Dawson County,” Perry said in his announcement. “I am running for Sheriff to serve the citizens of Dawson County because there is nothing more important to me than keeping our families safe, and bringing capable leadership to the top law enforcement position in the county.”

Perry currently teaches Criminal Justice in the Dawson County School system. He started the Criminal Justice program two years ago and teaches Intro to Criminal Justice, Criminal Justice Essentials and Criminal Investigations to students at Dawson County High and Junior High schools.

According to his announcement, Perry served as parole chief for 19 years over Dawson, Lumpkin, Union, Cherokee, Forsyth, Fannin, Gilmer and Pickens counties. 

“I promise to bring effective leadership, employee accountability and fiscal responsibility to the office of Sheriff,” Perry stated.

In Perry’s announcement, he said he plans to initiate a fierce anti-drug campaign through education and enforcement, and a high priority of working with the accountability courts such as Drug Court, DUI Court and Family Court.

He also plans to set aside one day a month for citizens, if elected. Citizens Day will be an opportunity for members of the community to meet with the sheriff without needing an appointment. Perry said he will be in the office from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. to meet with citizens. He would also like to conduct quarterly meetings or town hall meetings with the citizens.