“I have been serving the citizens of Halifax County for the past 33 years, starting in 1984 as a jailer and working and supervising every position within the sheriff’s office,” Tripp said on social media and an ad in a local newspaper.

He emailed the statement to rrspin.com.

He was appointed sheriff in August of 2013 to fill the unexpired term of Jeff Frazier and was later elected to the office in November 2014.

“I have a positive working relationship with our court system and other law enforcement agencies surrounding the Roanoke Valley.  These relationships are paramount because working together works.”

Tripp said while serving as sheriff, “We are continuously seeking ways to better serve our communities and improve relations between the community and the sheriff’s office. We strive every day to accomplish this.  Citizen respect for law enforcement must be earned, but law enforcement respect for citizens is a requirement.”

One of his focal points is the ongoing Benefitting the Children of Halifax County program. “To date, we have raised thousands of dollars to benefit several organizations that care for our kids. Our annual Deputy Toy Drive and Coat Drive also helps our less fortunate families.  

“We have established a food pantry on site to assist those in need.  We will continue to assist and partner with many local groups with their fundraisers to help our citizens with their specific needs.”

During his watch as sheriff, the office has increased patrol in all areas of Halifax County to better serve and protect citizens, he said. “I believe in being available and accessible. In my many years of service, I have always concentrated on working for the victims and their families by providing resources and outlets for victim’s services.

“Family is and always has been important to me.  Many of you know my wife of 32 years, Karen.  We have a son, Wes III, who is in his final year of law school at Campbell in Raleigh. Karen retired from Halifax County and now works for Halifax Regional Medical Center.  We reside in Roanoke Rapids. We are proud to call Halifax County home.”

Said Tripp: “As the elected sheriff of Halifax County, I work for you, the citizens. I ask for your continued support and vote in 2018.”