Forrest Smith, Okarche’s police chief, has filed to run for sheriff of Kingfisher County.
Smith announced his candidacy for sheriff on Friday, April 5.
Smith was one of five Republican candidates vying for the seat held by Democrat Sheriff Dennis Banther who has been sheriff since 2004.
Dennis Banther, Kingfisher County Sheriff (left) and Forrest Smith, Okarche Police Chief (right).
Others filing for sheriff before the 5 p.m. Friday, April 5 deadline at the Kingfisher County Election Board were Jeremiah Loper, 35, of Kingfisher, Aaron Pitts, 34, of Kingfisher, Jonathon Riedlinger, 41, of Kingfisher and Michael Dean Shults, 55, of Kingfisher.
Filings for other county offices also ended Friday in Kingfisher County.
Filing for the county court clerk office were Republicans Jessica M. Conner, 36, of Kingfisher and Lauren Stroh, 33, of Okarche.
Emily Lee, 35, of Hennessey, a Republican, was the only candidate to file for the county clerk position.
Filing for the County Commissioner District No. 2 seat were Republicans Mike Sparks, 61, of Hennessey and Austin Whittenburg, 34, of Hennessey, both Republicans. A Democrat filed for county commi8ssioner in District #2, that was David Roller, 62, of Hennessey.
On the Okarche Police Facebook page Friday, Smith posted the following:
“Today, I stand before you to announce my candidacy for the position of Kingfisher County Sheriff. It is with immense pride and a sense of duty that I take this step forward in serving our community in a broader capacity.
As the Chief of Police of Okarche, I have had the privilege of working closely with our dedicated officers and serving the wonderful people of this town,” Smith wrote. “The experience has been both rewarding and humbling, as I have witnessed firsthand the strength and resilience of our community.”
The post reads, “Throughout my tenure as Chief of Police, I have been inspired by the unwavering support and trust that you, the citizens of Okarche, have placed in me and our police force. Your belief in our ability to keep this town safe and secure has been the driving force behind our success. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve you all.
I want to assure you that this announcement in no way alters my dedication to continue serving the town of Okarche and its beloved citizens. While seeking the position of Kingfisher County Sheriff, my commitment to Okarche remains steadfast. I will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of our community.”
Smith wrote that his decision to run for Kingfisher County Sheriff is driven by “a deep-rooted passion for public service and a desire to make a positive impact on a larger scale.”
“I believe that my experience as Chief of Police has equipped me with the necessary skills, knowledge, and leadership to take on this new challenge.
If elected as Kingfisher County Sheriff, I will bring the same dedication, integrity, and commitment to excellence that I have demonstrated as your Chief of Police. I will work diligently to enhance public safety, strengthen community partnerships, and uphold the values that make our town and county a great place to live.
I humbly ask for your continued support and trust as we embark on this new journey together. Together, we can build a safer, stronger, and more united Kingfisher County.”
All county officers are elected to serve four-year terms.
The primary election across Oklahoma is set Tuesday, June 18 with the runoff Tuesday, Aug. 27.
The statewide general election will be Tuesday, Nov. 5.
