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Donald Earl Edwards

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Buket Urgen

Donald is the Chief of Police. He works at the Clinton Police Department, where he has been since 1993. He previously worked as a police officer, investigator, traffic enforcement officer, accreditation manager, and captain in the department.

Edwards retires, honored by city | Sampson Independent

For Candidate Donald Earl Edwards on Issue public-safety:  
Plans to equip every officer and patrol vehicle with Narcan to aid overdose victims and save lives.

Said, "Expanded our drug take back program, hosting events, and partnering with pharmacies and other community resources taking in hundreds of pounds of unwanted medications annually."

Said, "Strong focus on mental health response: increasing Sampson County’s Crisis Intervention training percent from under 10% to above 80%, with CPD having 100% before I retired. Our efforts helped spread CIT to other first responders and significantly increased the County’s participation and certification."

Public Safety

Advocates for achieving accreditation with CALEA to ensure fairness, transparency, and adherence to the highest national standards in law enforcement.

Jail Management

For Candidate Donald Earl Edwards on Issue criminal-justice: Supports creating a Police Youth Camp to foster closer relationships between youth and police in an educational setting.

Said, "Implemented agency’s first career development plan, recognizing and financially rewarding officers for attaining specialized training and education."

Said, "Partnered with community leaders to conduct annual fund raising for the Child Advocacy Center, of which I was a member."

Supports educating the public, especially youth, about substance abuse and linking the community with resources.

Criminal Justice

Jackson will file for Sampson sheriff | Sampson Independent

Jimmy Thornton is currently the sheriff of Sampson County. He has served in this role for 23 years.

As of April 6, 2026, Jimmy Thornton did not have a website or any information online.

Has been taking deputies off the streets to monitor and escort inmates to court.

Has been "taking deputies off the streets to monitor and escort inmates to court."

- Has been "taking deputies off the streets to monitor and escort inmates to court."

Jimmy Thornton

- The sheriff is responsible for enforcing the law, managing security in jails and courtrooms. They also oversee daily conditions of the jail and inmates in custody and serve legal documents such as warrants and eviction notices. Their ultimate responsibility is to protect the community. 

Sampson Sheriff

Candidates (2)