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Photo of Clarence F. Birkhead

Clarence F. Birkhead

DEMOCRAT

Clarence F. Birkhead is running for Durham Sheriff, Democratic Primary.

Personal background

Clarence Birkhead is from Asheboro. He has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Shaw University and a master’s degree in organizational management from Pfeiffer University. He lives with his wife, Kathy, and has three children.

Professional background

Clarence previously worked as associate vice president of safety and security at Queens University, chief of police at the Hillsborough Police Department, chief of police at the Duke University Public Safety Department, and assistant chief at the Randolph County Sheriff's Office.

Political background

Clarence currently serves as the Durham County sheriff. He was first elected in 2018, and is serving his second term.

Public Safety

Said "public safety has never been just about enforcement—it is about fairness, compassion, and listening to the people we serve. "

As sheriff, "increased efforts to rid our communities of drugs and remove guns from our neighborhoods."

As sheriff, "implemented the Sheriff’s Targeted Enforcement Program (STEP) to address quality of life concerns in our community regarding public safety, gun violence, and criminal activity."

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Jail Management

Supports medication-assisted treatment for substance abuse, mental health care, peer support, transition services, and improving family communication for inmates in jail.

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Criminal Justice

As sheriff, "rejected ICE [Immigration and Customs Enforcement] detainers without a judicial warrant or a Notice to Appear."

As sheriff, banned no-knock warrants, which allow police to enter a property without first knocking and announcing their presence.

As sheriff, "implemented all aspects of '8 Can’t Wait'," a set of law enforcement use of force policies that are intended to de-escalate violence.

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