Editor’s note: Between now and June 3, the Courier will profile candidates in contested area county and statewide races.

BLOOMFIELD — Four men are competing to see who will emerge from the Democratic primary election for Davis County Sheriff. One of the men — Tommy Thompson, Bill Thomas Jr., Jeff Horn or Dave Davis, will face off against Republican Wesley Bales for the law enforcement post during November’s general election. Incumbent Sheriff Monte Harsch did not run for re-election.

Dave Davis

Davis is chief deputy at the sheriff’s office, and feels his experience and education qualify him to be sheriff.

He started in 1997 as a reserve deputy, went full-time in 2000 and was promoted in 2004. He graduated “top 10” of his Iowa Law Enforcement Academy class, has a bachelor’s degree in education from William Penn University. He also is a 1982 graduate of Davis County High School.

“I want to continue to have a professional department,” he said. “I want citizens of Davis County or visitors to our county to feel safe while they’re here.”

He said he takes all crime seriously.

“I want to continue fighting against drugs, and I want people to know if you’re going to commit a crime here in Davis County, our sheriff’s department will investigate thoroughly and if applicable, bring charges.”

Davis said he’ll work with other law enforcement agencies to solve problems cooperatively.

But being sheriff is not just about fighting crime

“I want a department that is community based and has a good rapport with the citizens,” he said, adding he gets support because of “my willingness to treat all people with respect.”

Jeff Horn

Horn also believes in having a good relationship between everyday people and the sheriff’s office.

“We’re all in this together. Why try to squeeze a buck out of the common guy for a muffler ticket? Nowadays, I see a lot of people who all they’re trying to do is avoid law enforcement; and there’s no reason to avoid them. They’re there to help you ... you’re paid a salary to help by the people who pay taxes,” he said. “I want to run for the people.”