Each of the five candidates for Hamilton County sheriff says he has the experience for the job.

At meetings with the Chattanooga Times Free Press editorial board this week, four of the five candidates for the office said they had the right kind of experience to be sheriff.

Independent candidate Jim Winters said his experience as an East Ridge detective and medical examiner’s investigator made him right for the job, while criticizing other candidates.

Republican nominee Jim Hammond admitted he was a “political appointee” to the position of chief deputy, but he said he had gone through police training.

Democrat Greg Beck touted his work with the County Commission and as a corrections officer.

Write-in candidate Fred Fuson said he is “the only candidate who’s made a profession out of law enforcement.”

Independent candidate Tim Akins, a former staff sergeant in the sheriff’s department, also is seeking the office.

For complete coverage, see tomorrow’s Chattanooga Times Free Press.

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