Guide to the York County Sheriff Race and What All 5 Candidates Are Saying

Five candidates are running for York County sheriff to replace retiring Kevin Tolson, including his wife.

Michael Belk, Chris Blevins, Tony Breeden, Heath Clevenger and Beth Bryant Tolson will run in the York County Republican primary for sheriff on June 11. If no candidate obtains a majority of votes, a second round will take place on June 25. no Democrats are running, so the Republican candidate is expected to win the November general election.

The Fort Mill Sun asked each candidate to provide information about themselves and answer a few questions, with no restrictions on length. Tony Breeden did not respond.

Michael Belk

“With 31 years of experience and service in law enforcement, I am fully prepared to lead the York County Sheriff’s Office from day one. I have served in numerous assignments within the Rock Hill Police Department such as Patrol, Investigations, Narcotics, Training, SWAT Commander, and most recently Deputy Police Chief.

“As Deputy Chief, I am second in command of the largest police department in the county and direct the day-to-day operations of the agencies, 5 divisions, over 200 employees and a budget of $23 million.”

Chris Blevins

“Starting with YCSO as a reserved deputy in 1994, I have worked and gained experience in many different divisions of the Sheriff's Office. I worked in the patrol, narcotics and criminal investigations division. I was a supervisor in the Anti-Crime Team, Traffic Police, Patrol Division, Honor Guard, and most recently District Commander.

“At every stage of my career, I have gained valuable experience not in law enforcement, but in the diverse communities of York County. I have also been placed in several very stressful situations throughout my career, resulting in several accolades.

“In addition to receiving Congressional recognition, he has received other honors including several Medals of Valor from the York County Sheriff's Office, the SC Sheriff's Association, several Medals of Honor from the York County Sheriff's Office York, a sheriff's citation and the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department medal. merit.

“One of these incidents occurred in Fort Mill while we were assisting CMPD in the apprehension of a violent armed robbery suspect. I also appreciate the transparency; To be the county's top law enforcement officer, it takes someone who is able to face tough questions, make tough decisions, and earn and maintain the trust of citizens. My campaign demonstrates my transparency and my desire to interact with citizens.

Heath Clevenger

“I reside in the unincorporated area of ​​York with my wife and daughter. I retired after 25 years of service in December 2022. “I have served as a detention officer, patrol deputy, traffic control deputy, drill sergeant, patrol sergeant, narcotics investigator , Patrol Lieutenant/District Commander and Special Operations Lieutenant. I have served for over 21 years on the York County Sheriff's Office SWAT Team as an Entry Team Member, Training Coordinator, Entry Team Leader and Commander tactical. I have been involved in many critical incidents and recognized many times for my valorous actions. I am running for Sheriff because I felt the calling to serve the residents of York County and the staff of the Sheriff's Office. After the initial filing closed, I was the first person to announce that I would run, even though it required running as an independent.

Beth Bryant Tolson

Tolson, 53, was born and raised in York. She served 32 years in York County law enforcement. “I am running because of my love for the York County Sheriff’s Office and the people of York County that I have served my entire life,” she said.

Additional information from his campaign website: With more than 30 years of experience with the York County Sheriff's Office, Tolson is running for sheriff and building on a family legacy of law enforcement leadership . As the daughter and wife of former Sheriffs Bruce Bryant and Kevin Tolson, she has a deep understanding of effective law enforcement. His career has spanned various roles, including patrol officer, detective, lieutenant, and DUI/domestic violence investigator, demonstrating his dedication and compassion. Inspired by her spouse Kevin's successful tenure, Beth aims to continue his legacy, emphasizing professionalism, accountability and community trust in her bid to lead the Sheriff's Office.

Tony Breeden

Summary of his background from his campaign website: Raised in south Charlotte and a graduate of Myers Park High School, Breeden says he embodies service, dedication and community values. He enlisted in the Marine Corps, serving in Okinawa and embassies in Tunisia, Syria, Algeria and Honduras, which instilled in him a deep sense of duty. After his service in the Navy, Tony joined the Mecklenburg County Sheriff's Office and then the Rock Hill Police Department in 1995. As he rose through the ranks, he demonstrated exceptional leadership, eventually becoming a lieutenant and serving on the SWAT team for 25 years. He retired in 2022.

After retirement, Tony continues to serve with Inspiration Ministries in Indian Land, South Carolina. He is the devoted husband of Brooke Lessmeister Breeden, father of three, and maintains a strong faith in Jesus Christ, guiding his values ​​and character.

Tony Breeden's extensive experience, faith and commitment to justice make him the ideal candidate for York County Sheriff. He promises to lead with integrity, compassion and dedication to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.

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