Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

Election '06: County elects new sheriff

Voters in Nevada County have selected a new Democratic candidate for sheriff. Bobby Carlton won that honor by a very narrow margin in the June 13 runoff. There is no Republican candidate for that position, meaning Carlton will take over as Nevada County Sheriff, effective Jan. 1.

More than 2,000 people voted in the runoff election, which included three state-wide elections but only one county-wide choice.

Nevada County Sheriff Steve Otwell was on hand at the courthouse as the votes were tallied.

The people have spoken, Otwell said after the vote had been announced. I wish Mr. Carlton well in his endeavors.

Otwell said the results werent as disturbing to him as the lack of participation. He cited the low turnouts in both the May primary and the June runoff.

How sad that weve had so many brave men and women who sacrificed their lives so that we have the right to vote, Otwell said.

He said he does realize that those sacrifices offered freedom, including the freedom to not vote at all.

Otwell took time to thank his supporters and said he plans to help make the transition to a new sheriff as smooth as possible.

If I can ever be of any assistance to him, I hope he knows all he has to do is call me.

Carlton said he plans to take advantage of that offer.

I know he has information that will help me, Carlton said, specifically pointing out Otwells knowledge of the operating procedures for the jail. I respect Steve and the position he holds.

Carlton said he expects a smooth transition and that hes already working toward establishing a working relationship with other agencies.

Its very important to me that law enforcement not be interrupted, Carlton said. Im looking forward to the administrative duties. Law enforcement has been the main part of my life for 29 years.

Carlton said its too early to make announcements or decisions regarding staffing in the sheriffs office.

Carlton said he wasnt surprised that the race was close.

I felt in my heart that it would be close, he said. I didnt win that position by myself. There were many supporters, family members and friends that helped me get the votes I needed.

Carlton said the elected offices belong to the citizens of the county.

The citizens of Nevada County chose to allow me to be administrator of this position, he said. Im humbled.

Asked what he plans to do next, Otwell said he hasnt made any decisions. He said there are opportunities for anyone who wants to work.

I was looking for a job when the people elected me to this one, he said. Ill find another one.