Charlie Leon Davenport (Leon) has announced his Candidacy for Sheriff, and he says he plans to make Gilmer County a better place. Leon Davenport was born at Watkins Memorial Hospital (now NGMC) and was raised out Tails Creek. He took the hand of Jennifer Smith in marriage in 1997, and they have 2 daughters, Ashley 14, and Kaylee, 12. Leon has raised his children here in this county. The Davenports attend Liberty Baptist Church and enjoy being involved in community programs. Leon started his public safety career with the Volunteer Fire Department in 1999, and moved on to the Gilmer County Sheriff’s Department under Sheriff Bernhardt in 2001. In 2010 he accepted a position with the Ellijay Police Department, in an effort to broaden his knowledge in Law Enforcement. In 2 years, he has been promoted from patrol, to Department Sergeant, to his current position, Department investigator. He has brought multiple programs to the Ellijay PD, all of which are aimed at cutting costs while improving productivity and protection. He has been able to acquire in excess of 330,000.00 in equipment and vehicle’s in the last year. Leon has been able to get grants for the entire department’s radio equipment and officer’s ballistic vest.

Leon says he will bring the Sheriff’s department back to its people by not only reducing spending and utilizing the tax dollars more wisely, but also getting the Department more involved in the community. “Throughout history, Sheriffs and sheriff deputies have been not only law enforcement, but also members and contributors of the community. They were looked up to by children, and respected by their parents and families. If I am elected, I plan to bring these fundamental values back to the Gilmer County Sheriff’s Department. My goal is to keep Gilmer County a great place to raise children, and a place that keeps the tradition of core values being instilled on them. Once those children grow, I hope they have the same feelings and confidence in this great community.”

“All I can ask is that the voters of this county, our county, make an informed decision when they enter the voting booth. I know I have the ability, the drive, the knowledge, and the will to return Gilmer County to its full glory and potential.”