About the campaign:

For over 30 years, I’ve committed myself to public safety and serving communities in this region starting as a teenage cadet and progressing up the ranks to eventually serve as Chief of Operations for one of the largest police departments in the country. Most recently, I served as the patrol commander and later deputy chief of police for the second largest public university in our state. I’ve built partnerships, led teams, and brought forward-thinking strategies to complex public safety challenges. Now, I’m ready to bring that experience home. Carroll County is growing, and with growth and development come more real-world challenges associated with mental health, drug abuse, domestic violence, child abuse, and other violent crime. This sheriff's office has transitioned over the last two decades from court security, corrections, and civil process to providing 24/7 law enforcement services for this county. It is time to build out the capabilities of the sheriff's office to meet the challenges of the future. This requires a collaborative approach with other law enforcement agencies, the states attorney's office, as well as public and private support resources.   

For too long, elections for Sheriff in Carroll County have gone uncontested. Without meaningful choice, leadership can begin to operate on autopilot, reactive instead of proactive. Our community deserves more.

Too often, rural and suburban communities are treated like they're immune to the broader public safety issues that impact our region. Carroll County is not isolated. Smart, coordinated policing must reflect that. I will strengthen collaboration with local, state, and federal partners, build our capabilities, support the professional development of deputies, and professional staff who serve our neighborhoods.

Decades of experience in law enforcement as a police officer, investigator, supervisor, and commander have prepared me for this challenge. A commitment to faith, family, and community have inspired my decision to run in 2026. 

This is a moment for new energy and fresh perspective. With your support, I will bring accountable, forward-looking leadership with integrity to the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office. Carroll County deserves nothing less.

Jay Landsman, Jr. for Sheriff.