Candidate Profile: Carlos L. Turner (Surry County Sheriff)

Carlos L. Turner is a candidate for the Surry County Sheriff. His name will appear on the ballot on November 7, 2023.

Turner is an incumbent running against challenger R. M. “Rocky” Barbee.

10 On Your Side reached out to all of the candidates running in this race with specific questions. The responses below came directly from the candidate and are unedited. If you do not see the candidate listed with a profile, we did not receive one.

Name: Carlos L. Turner

Age: 48

Race: Surry County Sheriff

Website: https://www.facebook.com/sheriffcarlosturner

Biography: On January 1, 2016, Sheriff Carlos Turner took office for his first four-year term as Sheriff of Surry County and on November 5th 2019 Sheriff Turner was re-elected for a second term as Sheriff.

Sheriff Turner’s commitment to education and continued with his law enforcement studies at Liberty University, an obtained a bachelor’s in criminal justice and his Master’s in Business Management – Human Services. Sheriff Turner also has a post graduate degree from Albany State University, where he holds a master’s in criminal justice. Sheriff Turner not only understands his importance to the laws that govern the people, but he also understands and accepts his responsibility to his Creator. He firmly believes in setting and upholding standards in every aspect of his life. He is a faithful member of the Lebanon Baptist Church in Surry County, where he serves on the Deacon’s Ministry. Sheriff Turner also talks with people of all ages about the positive differences they can make in their lives and community by making wise decisions and being true to themselves. Sheriff Turner will continue to protect and serve the citizens of Surry County and encourage the development of our young people to do their very best. He serves on the following boards, the Riverside Regional Jail Authority, the Crater Criminal Justice Training Academy’s Executive Board, the Riverside Community Criminal Justice Board, Virginia Sheriffs’ Association Board of Directors and Legislative Committee, and the Surry County Highway Transportation Commission.

Sheriff Turner is focused on service to the community. He volunteers with and is a member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Lambda Nu Chapter, Member of the Surry County Lions Clubs, the Surry County Ruritan Club, the Surry County Branch of the NAACP (Life Member), the Surry County, Virginia Historical Society, the Surry County African American Heritage Society, the Surry Distinguished Gentleman’s Club, and the Virginia Peninsula Foodbank.

Why are you running for this office?  

I am running for re-election as Sheriff because I am deeply committed to serving and protecting Surry County. Throughout my 25 years in law enforcement, I have witnessed firsthand the importance of strong and compassionate leadership within local law enforcement agencies.  That’s why I believe in the principles of fairness, accountability, and community engagement. As Sheriff, I aim to ensure the safety and security of every resident in our county. I will continue to work tirelessly to reduce crime and implement effective community policing practices. While we as a Sheriff’s Office have accomplished a lot in these past 8 years, there is still work to be done.  I, along with the dedicated men and women of the Surry Sheriff’s Office, remain as committed as ever to keeping our county a great and safe place to live.

What is the most important issue facing law enforcement?

Law enforcement agencies across the country have been wrestling with a shortage of qualified candidates for the job. Many of us in law enforcement see hiring and retention as a crisis and can be attributed to various factors:

• The job market has become increasingly competitive, making it difficult for law enforcement agencies to attract top talent.
• Private sector companies often offer more lucrative compensation packages, including higher salaries and better benefits.

• Negative public perception of law enforcement following high-profile incidents can deter individuals from pursuing careers in policing.
• This perception can also lead to increased scrutiny and criticism of officers, affecting morale and job satisfaction.

Hiring and retention are critical issues because they impact the effectiveness, trustworthiness, and accountability of our agencies. Addressing these challenges is essential to build strong, capable, and diverse police forces that can meet the evolving needs of the communities we serve while upholding the principles of justice and public safety.

How will you still value constituents and politicians with whom you disagree?

I know first-hand how serving as Sheriff is crucial to maintain a commitment to respecting and valuing my citizens and political representatives with whom I may disagree. I have found this approach is essential for effective leadership and fostering a sense of unity within the community. Having open communication and maintaining open lines of communication with all stakeholders, regardless of political differences. Encouraging citizens and politicians to express their views and concerns freely. Second is transparency, be transparent about my values and principles. Honesty about my stance on various issues can help build trust, even if it means acknowledging differences we have. Third is leading by example, demonstrating respect and civility in my interactions. As a community leader my behavior sets the tone for how others in the community will interact.

I know my primary duty as Sheriff is to serve and protect the community. Valuing our citizens and politicians with whom I disagree is part of fulfilling that duty by promoting harmony, cooperation, and the overall welfare of the community.