Editor, Smithfield Times

As a resident of Surry County, one thing we pride ourselves on is integrity and carrying a moral compass. I’ve met all of the candidates for Sheriff, and conducted research on all of them, and one stands out to me — unfortunately in an unflattering way — Carlos Turner. Turner had to pay back the Virginia Employment Commission about $5,000 in unemployment benefits because he was terminated from the Albemarle County Police Department for an arrest involving four juveniles. Apparently he mischaracterized on his report of a traffic stop involving four juveniles possessing marijuana and alcohol.

Circuit Court Judge Cheryl Higgins upheld both VEC and The Albemarle PD’s claim. Surry Sheriff Alvin Clayton then offered Turner a job. How does Turner repay his new employer — by only staying a few short months before going to Sussex County, then stumped for Clayton’s opponent in the 2008 election.

He is considered a flip flopper and ineffective in Claremont as a Councilman.

Wake up Surry. We don’t need Carlos Turner when it concerns our safety.

Patricia Archer
Surry