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David Southards has attended Western Carolina University.

David is the assistant chief of police. He works at the Andrews Police Department in Cherokee County. He previously worked at the Swain County Sheriff’s Office as a deputy sheriff, where he served as a detention officer, a school resource officer and in investigations.

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David is the assistant chief of police. He works at the Andrews Police Department in Cherokee County. He previously worked at the Swain County Sheriff’s Office as a deputy sheriff, where he served as a detention officer and a school resource officer.

As of January 2, 2026, David Southards did not have a website or any information online.

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David Southards

David is currently the assistant chief of police for Andrews in Cherokee County. He began his law enforcement career in 1997 as a deputy in Swain County.

David Southards's campaign for Swain County sheriff is his first entry into politics.

David previously served as the Swain County sheriff.

David previously served as the Swain County sheriff. He ran for re-election in 2026 but did not win. David is currently the assistant chief of police for the town of Andrews in Cherokee County.

Emileigh Crouch

Buket Urgen

As of January 2, 2026, Douglas (Tank) Anthony did not have a website or any information online.

Douglas (Tank) Anthony

Douglas (Tank) Anthony ran for the office of Swain County Sheriff in 2022 but did not win.

Douglas (Tank) Anthony's campaign for Swain County Sheriff is his first entry into politics.

Doug ran for Swain County sheriff in 2022 but did not win.

- 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. 

Swain Sheriff, Democratic Primary

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