He collected 64.35 percent of the vote Tuesday, beating out challenger Tyree Davis. He goes on to face James Warren, who is running as a Republican, and presumably Weldon Police Chief Mark Macon, who announced his intent to run as an independent candidate in November.

“In my 29 years I've helped three sheriffs get elected,” Tripp said. “It's very humbling to see your name on the ballot. It's also humbling with this victory and going onto November and the general election.”

Tripp said he plans to continue doing what he has been doing as the appointed sheriff and improve upon those accomplishments. “We're going to be exploring new ways to do things. It's all about being available and accessible. I'm going to continue our Concerns for the Community, the E Sheriff program and Church Watch. I'm going to continue increased visibility.”

Tripp said Tuesday's primary win is the first step in the Democratic process. “It is an election process that moves us to the general election. It's going to be business as usual.”

Davis, a former investigator with the sheriff's office said in a statement: “I want to say thank you to everyone who came out and voted. Thank you to everyone who voted for me, handed out flyers, or worked the polls for me. Thank you to everyone who supported me and played a role no matter how big or small in this election.”

He also thanked Tripp for running a clean campaign. “Last but not least I want to say congratulations and thank you to Wes Tripp on his win and for running a clean and professional campaign. I look foreword to continuing to serve the citizens of Halifax County in the future.”

Tripp, in turn, commended Davis. “He's a very good, professional person. I'm appreciative of his statement and look forward to continuing a professional relationship with him.”

Other Halifax County races

In the Judicial District 6 District Attorney's race current 6B District Attorney Valerie Asbell collected 11,213 votes to win that race against current Halifax County District Attorney Melissa Pelfrey. Pelfrey received 9,644 votes.

In the race for clerk of court, incumbent Becky Spragins beat challenger Michael Hawkins Sr. Spragins collected 59.13 of the vote.

In the Halifax County School Board race, Claude Cooper, Susie Evans Lynch and Joyce Silver Lashley won seats.

In the House District 27 race, incumbent Michael Wray beat challenger Franklin D. Williams. Wray collected 8,434 votes. Williams collected 6,107.