John Cassell spoke to a crowd of about 300 people Saturday, officially announcing his candidacy for Henry County Sheriff. Cassell said he was born and raised in Henry County and said he enjoys living here. He retired from the Henry County Sheriff’s Office in 2017, but “left on terms I wasn’t really ready to leave on” said Cassell.
“I went overseas… Afghanistan… and friends and family encouraged me to run for the office when I returned” he said.
“It’s time for a change. My opponent is a good man, I like him a lot, but he’s been in office so long it’s affecting his service, the community, and the Sheriff’s Office. Over twenty-five percent of the force has left in 2017 and 2018” Cassell said.
“Drugs is a big deal… overdoses… and NORCAN is not being issued while other agencies have been doing it for years” Cassell continued.
“The Mexican Cartel picked Henry County to stage their distribution and if it wasn’t for Federal Authorities they would still be here.”
Cassell was later asked by a reporter why he thought the Cartel picked Henry County and he answered: “I’m sure it wasn’t because of the food or the weather.”
Cassell said he has a strong commitment to community, a heartfelt direction, experience in narcotics and undercover, and the drive to get the job done.
“I have a lot of challenges… got to get the new jail running in July of 2021 with the right people trained properly,” Cassell said.
“I will form a strong administration from all walks of life, including some retirees coming back. I’m excited about the changes and the challenges” said Cassell.
“I will make the schools safer and will assign a resource officer to every school in Henry County not only for the safety of the schools but to be a role model for the students,” Cassell said.
“I am a proactive leader, I look at problems and meet them head-on, and put the best deputies out there” Cassell continued.
“People tell me they can’t get a hold of the current administration. People elect a Sheriff for a 4-year term, not just the last 6 months before an election. I will be here for you” Cassell explained.
Cassell was asked if he really meant it when he said he would publish his personal cellphone number and he confirmed he would. The number is already available to anyone at johncassellforsheriff.com.
“I’d like to thank everyone for being here,” Cassell said at today’s meet and greet fundraiser. “We’re just getting started.”