Bainbridge resident David Benjamin has announced intention to register as a write-in candidate for the office of Decatur County sheriff in the November election.

Benjamin has 23 years of law enforcement experience under his belt,

Born and raised in New York, Benjamin, 61, attended college in Miami, Florida, and had the opportunity to intern with Miami Police Department and Dade County Sheriff’s Office.

He graduated from college in 1977 and moved to Tallahassee to further his education at Florida State. While there he worked for Quincey Police Department and Liberty County Sheriff’s Office.

He worked for Bainbridge Public Safety from 1986-1990 and the Decatur County Sheriff’s Office from 1990 to 1998 while also working for the Whigham Police Department.

After a near-fatal car accident in 1995 while answering a call for the DCSO, Benjamin retired from law enforcement. He has kept himself busy with an animal and horse rescue and sanctuary, which he started in 2006 and operates to this day.

“Many people have asked me why, at this point in my life, the purpose of running for Sheriff,” Benjamin said. “I tell them that I am dedicated to law enforcement in this county and feel that I have a vested interest in the safety of the citizens of Decatur County. With each passing year, my dedication to the citizens has grown stronger.”

Benjamin also said his main goal if elected sheriff is to “solve the drug problem” in Decatur County. He is a proponent of second amendment rights.

Benjamin lives with his wife, Pam. His campaign address is 2693 Lake Douglas Rd., Bainbridge, GA 39819.