Rick Padgett for Yell County Sheriff
A New Direction
Join Rick Padgett in making Yell County safer and stronger for all its citizens with responsible leadership.
After prayerful consideration, I am officially announcing my candidacy for Yell County Sheriff in the Republican primary slated for March of 2026. I have honorably served the citizens of Danville for almost three decades, twenty-two as your Chief of Police, and I am very proud of the team we have built during this time. My goal has always been to build a department that is not just a law enforcement agency, but a team of public servants. My commitment to you and your family has never wavered, our mission is your safety. I will build a team of highly trained professionals who will work diligently to ensure the safety of every citizen in Yell County. We will combat the war on drugs in our communities with enhanced drug interdiction tactics and we will have a strong Criminal Investigation Division. As I have said before, illegal drugs are the root of all evil. They destroy lives and families at a rate we have never seen before. We will aggressively pursue those who wish to set up shop in our communities. I will also enact peer supported rehabilitation programs in our detention center which will be an example to all others in the state. I will have a program designed to rehabilitate repeat drug offenders while incarcerated and stop the revolving door into our jails. This program will not only turn that persons life around, but bring that person back to their family. This will also reduce the continued burden on our tax payers. Together we will make a difference.
Citizens of Yell County, I am humbly asking for your vote and support to be YOUR Yell County Sheriff. If elected your next Sheriff, I will bring a tried and proven law enforcement program to the department, which I have invested in for over two decades. I am not a politician, I am a public servant of which I have served in every aspect of emergency services in my career. I am a patriot and a strong supporter of our Constitution.
I truly believe to serve your community is a true calling from God. Any veteran of emergency services will share this sentiment. It’s never about notoriety or wages, it’s about making a difference in your community. I believe I have accomplished that and we will now take this same goal to the Yell County Sheriff’s Department. There is no on the job training or grace period in being the Sheriff. You must be ready to serve the citizens when you are sworn to lead that agency.
We look forward to meeting you and hearing your concerns about the future of the Yell County Sheriff’s Department. Together we will make Yell County a safer place to live and raise your families. Once again, our mission is your safety.
Rick Padgett's Vision
His Commitment
Rick Padgett is passionate about serving Yell County as your Sheriff. With a focus on community safety, transparency, and effective policing methods, he aims to foster a collaborative environment between law enforcement and the citizens. Your support can make a difference.
Safety
For Everyone
Establishing community policing initiatives to enhance trust and cooperation is paramount. Rick believes safety is a shared responsibility and prioritizes creating partnerships with local organizations and residents.
Transparency
Open Communication
Rick Padgett emphasizes the importance of transparency in law enforcement. Regular public forums and updates on budget allocations ensure the community remains informed and engaged in decision-making processes.
Training
Professional Standards
Investing in advanced training programs for deputies is crucial. Rick advocates for continuing education to equip officers with the skills they need to handle various situations effectively and compassionately.
