ORANGE COUNTY, Texas — Voters in Orange County got the chance to hear from each of the four candidates running for Sheriff Thursday night.
The four candidates who took place in the forum include incumbent Sheriff Jimmy Lane Mooney, Ron Dischler, Bobby Smith and Mike Sanchez's wife, who stood in for her husband who was sick.
The debate was held at Little Cypress Elementary School and each candidate addressed concerns from the community.
Each candidate has a unique vision for how they plan to protect and serve Orange County.
Dischler is a current BPD Lieutenant and longtime resident of Orange County. If elected, he wants to upgrade the technology investigators use to solve crimes.
"The message is moving Orange County Sheriff's Department further into the future and making it the best agency in the golden triangle area," Dischler said.
Smith retired as a major after 19 years with Texas Rangers to run for Orange County Sheriff.
He says his law enforcement experience will allow him to reinstate the disbanded homicide, investigation and narcotics team.
"I've been a leader in one of the most prestigious law enforcement agencies in the country. I've proven myself. I've investigated several complex cases. And I've handled everything from traffic law enforcement to criminal law enforcement," said Smith.
Tiffany Sanchez stood in for her husband Mike.
She says her husband is adamant about improving mental health protocols for deputies and the public.
"He needs to have his voice and his views out there for everyone to hear. He wants to focus on training their deputies in how to address those issues when they arrive on a scene," Sanchez said.
Meanwhile incumbent Mooney assured the community he has kept every promise he made when he was elected in 2020.
"I've served this community most of my career of 35 years. I'm the only one here who has Sheriff experience here for the sheriff's office," said Mooney.
The people of Orange County say they're ready to make their voices heard at the republican primary elections March 5 and the general election on November 5.