Edhat Staff
By edhat staff
Sheriff Bill Brown announced his re-election campaign to face off against Juan Camarena for the Santa Barbara County Sheriff seat.
Brown officially announced his intention to run on Wednesday with a press conference of nearly 100 supporters in front of the Northern Branch Jail near Santa Maria. District Attorney Joyce Dudley, Santa Barbara County Undersheriff Sol Linver, Santa Maria Mayor Pro Tem Mike Cordero, Lompoc Mayor Janelle Osborne, Goleta City Council Member Roger Aceves, Santa Barbara County Supervisor Steve Lavagnino, Lompoc Police Chief Joe Mariani, and Ventura Sheriff Bill Ayub were present.
“I am humbled by the extraordinary and generous support I have received from a wide range of people from all across Santa Barbara County as I seek re-election. I look forward to four more years of protecting and serving the people of this very special community and ask for your vote on June 7, 2022”, said Sheriff Bill Brown.
Brown has been the Sheriff of Santa Barbara County since 2006.
Challenger Juan Camarena is a current Lieutenant with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office and announced his bid last August. He’s a 42-year resident of Santa Barbara County, a United States Marine Corps veteran, and has worked in law enforcement for over 23 years. He additionally holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Administration and a master’s degree in Communications.
Camarena has received endorsements from the Santa Barbara County Deputy Sheriffs’ Association, the County Fire Fighters Association, and the Tri-Counties Peace Officer Research Association of Californi. He also recently received the endorsement of retired Santa Barbara County Sheriff Jim Thomas.
“I am supporting Lieutenant Juan Camarena for Santa Barbara County Sheriff because, in my opinion, he is the best candidate for the position going forward. Lieutenant Camarena will bring a fresh perspective to the Office of Sheriff. Born in Mexico, he grew up in Santa Barbara County, went to Santa Barbara County Schools, and became a United States Marine. Lieutenant Camarena fully understands the tasks ahead and will form a position of trust with the other Santa Barbara County public safety officials – something I believe is lacking now. I firmly believe Lieutenant Camarena is well qualified and prepared for the Office,” said Thomas.
Is Edhat ignoring the other candidate?