The Gist
Sheriff, Jay County

Larry (Ray) Newton Jr.

Candidate for Sheriff, Jay County

RepublicanIncumbent

Background

Occupation
Jay County Sheriff

Jay County's sheriff, who served from 2007 to 2014 and returned in 2023; a Navy veteran, he joined the Sheriff's Office in 1991.

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Documented positions

Public safety

  • Secured ARPA funds for deputies' body and in-car cameras

    Republican sheriff candidates battling for nomination

    Interview · The Commercial Review · Apr 13, 2026 · thecr.com

    “Newton worked with the county to allocate American Rescue Plan Act dollars in 2025 for purchasing body cameras for deputies and correction officers”
    Report

  • Supports continuing equipment replacement at the security center

    Republican sheriff candidates battling for nomination

    Interview · The Commercial Review · Apr 13, 2026 · thecr.com

    “One of his goals if re-elected would be continuing efforts to replace equipment as needed throughout the security center.”
    Report

  • Supports dispatch consolidation, leaving the decision to officials

    Asked about consolidating Portland's emergency dispatch with the county's, he said it makes sense but is for city and county officials to decide.

    Republican sheriff candidates battling for nomination

    Interview · The Commercial Review · Apr 13, 2026 · thecr.com

    “Am I against it? No. But, like I've told the city council, I've told the board of works, does it make sense? Yes”
    Report

All sources (5)

Positions are summarized from the sources listed and are not inferred from party affiliation. Items marked “Provided by” were published by the candidate's verified campaign or party office under our campaign content standards. See something wrong? Use the Report link beside it, or contact us.