#USA #Jerry Burns #Blount County #Sheriff's Office #Maryville

Jerry Burns Announces Candidacy for Blount County Sheriff in 2026

In an exciting development for local politics, former Blount County Sheriff's Deputy Jerry Burns has officially announced his intention to run for Blount County Sheriff in the upcoming 2026 election. With more than 15 years of law enforcement experience under his belt, Burns expresses a strong commitment to serving and protecting the community he loves.

A Passion for the Community

Burns’ motivation to join the sheriff’s race is deeply rooted in his affection for Blount County. "I love Blount County and want to make a difference here," said Burns during his announcement. His message resonates with many who see him as a dedicated figure striving for a safer environment. With the belief that the community deserves a secure place to live and raise families, Burns emphasizes that this vision is one worth fighting for.

Experience in Law Enforcement

From his time with the Blount County Sheriff's Office, where he served from 2016 to 2023, to his previous positions with the Gatlinburg Police Department and the Perry County Sheriff's Office in Hazard, Kentucky, Burns has garnered a wealth of experience that he plans to leverage in his candidacy. His roles included that of a field training officer and K9 deputy, giving him firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by law enforcement officers.

As the current owner of the Foothills Martial Arts Academy, Burns is committed to furthering his community’s safety through education. He offers defensive tactics training for law enforcement, teaches anti-bullying techniques for children, and provides self-defense classes for women, emphasizing a proactive approach to safety.

Campaign Focus

Burns’ campaign is centered on three key priorities that aim to tackle pressing issues within Blount County:

1. Public Safety and Crime Prevention: Burns aims to implement proactive policing strategies that will enhance the safety within the community. By fostering strong community relationships, he plans to ensure that deputies are well-equipped to protect residents.

2. Deputy Training, Recruitment, and Retention: Recognizing the importance of a well-trained police force, he intends to modernize training programs while improving recruitment efforts and policies that affect retention. His goal is to retain the best officers who are committed to serving Blount County.

3. Drug and Mental Health Crisis: Understanding the community's struggles with drug addiction and mental health crises, Burns plans to partner with local organizations to develop a balanced strategy focusing on prevention, treatment, and enforcement.

Community Engagement

Burns believes that transformation within the community can only happen with collective support, stating, "This campaign is about all of us coming together to build and maintain a safe community." His inclusive approach is likely to resonate with voters who prioritize community cohesion and collaboration.

For those interested in learning more about his campaign, Burns invites residents to visit his campaign website at Burns4sheriff.com, where they can find additional information about his policies and initiatives.

Conclusion

As the 2026 sheriff race approaches, Jerry Burns stands out not only for his rich experience but also for his vision of safety and collaboration that he wishes to realize within Blount County. His commitment and passion for community welfare could pave the way for a more secure environment, showing that real change is possible through unified efforts. Keep an eye on Burns as he embarks on this meaningful endeavor.