Name: Scott Mellinger

Age: 62

Political party: Democratic

Office sought: Madison County Sheriff

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Occupation: law enforcement

Political experience: Three terms as Madison County sheriff and two terms as state legislator

Family: Three children and two grandchildren

Why are you running for office?

I seek a fourth term because I feel our administration has made huge strides in finding solutions to the issues our county faces with regard to law enforcement and detention center issues. We have been working hand-in-hand with stakeholders countywide, especially in the areas of drug abuse, and developments are positive.

We also have developed a fantastic relationship with our communities to become effective partners in crime prevention and getting to the roots of issues.

What do you think are the most pressing issues facing the sheriff ’s office?

Drug abuse/effects: Positive developments regarding drug abuse are obvious in terms of our drug task force successes, establishment of a countywide drug addiction and mental health coalition, and the awareness level.

Jail detention space will continue to be an issue until additional space is developed, but jail population numbers have slightly decreased due to efforts of the Madison County justice system.

Personnel: Screening applicants and proper training have allowed us to maintain high standards.

What are your top three goals if elected to the position?

While continuing to fight drug crimes with strict enforcement, I want to be part of the team that develops an all-inclusive solution to decrease demand for illegal drugs through education, prevention efforts and treatment.

I want to increase the effects of behavior change programs in the Madison County Jail by continuing to implement and then evaluate programming that works.

My last goal is simply to continue to support the men and women in law enforcement.

Name: Larry Crenshaw

Age: 57

Political party: Republican

Office sought: Madison County Sheriff

Occupation: Detective, Anderson Police Department

Political experience: Anderson Police Chief; two terms on Madison County Council; president of Consolidated Dispatch Board

Family: Wife Laura Windlan; children Lindsay, Keely and Hogan Crenshaw

Why are you running for office?

I have been in law enforcement for almost 25 years. I’ve lived in Madison County my entire life and raised three children in our public schools. I am devoted both professionally and personally to my community: Madison County. My decision to run was based upon many factors: increased crime, lack of juvenile programs, epidemic of drugs and jail overcrowding.

What do you think are the most pressing issues facing the sheriff ’s office?

I was a former police chief and oversaw the entire police department. This entails many aspects including: Officer-public safety issues, union matters, budgets and crime prevention.

I was also elected for two terms on the county council, acting as president. Our duties were to oversee all budgetary matters dealing with county financial affairs.

I was the president of the board of directors in the county dispatch consolidation project, which saved taxpayers more than $300,000.

What are your top three goals if elected to the position?

1) Reducing juvenile delinquency. Implement new youth programs to deter criminal behaviors before they become adult offenders.

2) I will create an inmate work program (iWork) for non-violent offenders. This will allow offenders to work off their county-owed debts caused by their criminal actions.

3) I will acquire additional funding for more deputies and resources to wage our current war on drugs.

My goals are achievable and realistic. Executive changes have to be made.