News : Vinton Police Chief Ted Paxton Announces Candidacy for Sheriff

Vinton Police Chief Ted Paxton has been a fixture in the Vinton area since he was appointed as the Vinton Police Chief in 2014. Paxton has had a long career in law enforcement. 

Before he arrived in Vinton. He completed his training at the Iowa Law Enforcement Academy (ILEA)  and has served in the following positions:

1996 in Albion, Iowa as a Police Chief

1999 he joined the Hardin Sheriff's Department in Eldora, Iowa 

2007-2014 he served as the Eldora Chief of Police

2014-Present he has served as the Vinton Chief of Police 

In a news release, Paxton made his official announcement about his candidacy for the office of Benton County Sheriff in the 2024 election.

"My diverse work experience will serve the residents of Benton County well. I have over 28 years of service in law enforcement, 17 of which have been as a Chief of Police. My experience also includes serving as a deputy sheriff, volunteer firefighter, and 911 dispatcher. My experience brings a proven track record of leadership as evidenced by those who serve under my direction and the work, they do every day.

Service to the community is a foundation of my professional success and something I am excited to expand to the residents of Benton County. As a husband and parent of six children, I share many of the same concerns as many voters.

My younger children attend Vinton-Shellsburg Community School District and my wife, BreAnn Paxton is a 4th grade teacher in the same district. The safety of our children and the school staff are close to my heart.

I have proven to be a conservative leader both fiscally and philosophically. Believing law enforcement has a sacred responsibility to uphold and honor the constitution during the course of their duties, and to ensure tax dollars are not spent carelessly.

I appreciate the solid foundation that retiring Sheriff Ron Tippett has created, and believe the employees of the Benton County Sheriff's Office are the department's greatest assets. From this solid foundation, I have plans to expand and improve services to Benton County residents. My top priorities include:

✓ increase law enforcement presence at area schools

✓ expand educational opportunities for residents

✓ increase traffic enforcement to lower fatality accidents

✓ implement strategies to better engage residents in rural Benton County

✓ implementation of technology to enhance investigations and security in rural Benton County

I am excited to engage with friends and supporters along the campaign journey and meet new friends and supporters along the way.

Feel free to follow me along this journey on Facebook. I may be reached by phone at 319-432-3979 or by email at paxton4sheriff@gmail.com.

My experience as a leader, dedication, and vision for the future makes me an excellent candidate to serve as the next Benton County Sheriff. and I am excited to earn your vote and support."