Blankenship wins Republican runoff for Pickens Co. sheriff

PICKENS COUNTY, S.C. (WSPA) – Tommy Blankenship has defeated Chuck James in the runoff for the Republican nomination for sheriff of Pickens County.

Both Blankenship and James currently work for the Pickens County Sheriff’s Office. James is the chief deputy while Blankenship is a lieutenant overseeing training, certifications, and equipment.

His goal is to increase the number of officers patrolling the streets, continue drug awareness in the community and also build trust amongst citizens.

“I think the people of Pickens County have spoken and they think I’m the guy for the job. My message has been leadership through service that I believe that when you have great authority. With great authority comes great service and your job is to leverage that authority to benefit those that you have authority over and the people of Pickens County I think they’ve spoken, and they want a servant in the position of sheriff,” said Blankenship.

Blankenship will be unopposed in the November general election.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WSPA 7NEWS.