NEWPORT NEWS—Newport News homicide detective Rick Gaddis announced Thursday he is dropping out of the race for Isle of Wight County sheriff so he can support another candidate.

“I intend to support Smithfield Police Chief Mark Marshall,” Gaddis said in a letter. “I offer Chief Marshall my personal support as well as my professional endorsement. I strongly encourage each of you to support him as well.”

Gaddis decided to run for sheriff after “recent, disturbing events at the Isle of Wight Sheriff’s Office began to unfold.” He said he was surprised when Marshall entered the race and then met with Marshall. Gaddis said he and Marshall agreed they did not want to split the vote.

“As a result, I evoke logic,” Gaddis said. “Chief Marshall has already done what I aspire to do. This election should not be about personal aspirations or egos. This election is about the new leadership so drastically needed at the Isle of Wight Sheriff’s Office.” Incumbent Sheriff Charlie Phelps and Hampton Police Lt. Jim Crotts also are running for the job, which pays $80,209 annually.