Candidate: Harold Rutledge

Harold Rutledge is a proven law enforcement professional who has served the residents of Clay County for more than 17 years. He is now running for Sheriff and wants your support. Harold began his law enforcement career more than 30 years ago, serving first as a deputy sheriff in Nassau County. He then joined the sheriff\'s department in Putnam County where he rose to the rank of lieutenant before he joined the Clay County Sheriff\'s Department. Once again Harold excelled and quickly attained the rank of sergeant, becoming a watch supervisor and overseeing the department\'s road operations. A proven leader and manager, Harold knows all aspects of law enforcement, including street operations, training, budget, and he possesses empathy with both deputies and the citizens of Clay County. He retired in 2004 at which time he ran for, and was elected to, the Clay County Board of Commissioners where he served as chairman of the finance committee, overseeing a budget of more than $236 million. Harold currently serves as the director of the Academy of Law and Emergency Services for the Clay County School System, developing curriculum and overseeing a program which has served more than 300 students to date. Committed to the development of our youth, Harold has served in a variety of positions, including resource officer at both Ridgeview and Clay High Schools; instructor, ITT Technical College; and leader, Florida Sheriff\'s Explorer Association. Harold remains active in Clay County and his community as a volunteer as the treasurer of Clay County Action Coalition and is a member of the following professional and civic action groups: Chairman of the Board of Directors, Florida Public Services Association; Florida Association for Careers and Technical Education; Florida Association of Hostage Negotiators; past president, Rotary Club of Orange Park Sunset; and past president, Green Cove Springs Kiwanis Club. Past associations include Rotary Club of Orange Park Noon, Rotary Club of San Jose, the Association for Legal Professionals, The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and past chairman of the Boy Scouts of America, Black Creek District. A long-time resident of Clay County, Harold is married and has four children. He holds a degree in criminal justice and psychology, and a master\'s degree in business administration with a focus on public finance. Harold also earned the rank of Eagle Scout. He is founder and CEO of the Rutledge Group, LLC, a company specializing in concealed weapons safety classes and home security surveys, as well as developing training programs and courses for targeted audiences. Harold Rutledge has devoted his entire adult life to law enforcement and community service. Now you can make a difference by supporting a man who has passion and drive and is a true law enforcement professional. Support and vote for Harold Rutledge for Clay County Sheriff.