Newport News police officer considering run for IOW sheriff

Published 2:24 pm Monday, March 28, 2011

ISLE OF WIGHT—The head of the Newport News Police Homicide Unit said Monday he is seriously considering a run for Isle of Wight County Sheriff.

“Generally, I believe the time for change has come,” said Richard H. “Rick Gaddis. “I am not a politician. I have never engaged in politics. And of concern to some, I am not looking for a stepping-stone to a larger police agency.”

Sheriff C.W. “Charlie” Phelps earlier this month announced plans to seek a seventh, four-year term in the Nov. 8 General Election.

The job pays $80,209 annually, according to the county website.

Gaddis, a past president of the Fraternal Order of Police, Newport News Lodge No. 25, said he plans to make a decision after April 8.