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Daytona Beach police chief announces run for Volusia sheriff

Daytona Beach Police Chief Mike Chitwood officially announced Monday that he is running for Volusia County sheriff.
Chitwood was appointed Daytona Beach police chief in 2006. He previously served one year as police chief in Shawnee, Oklahoma. He also spent 17 years with the Philadelphia Police Department.
Chitwood talked to about 60 supporters and discussed what he would bring to the county. Chitwood has named his movement “VCSO 2.0,” saying he would focus on bringing more technology to the department, be actively involved with deputies, and be a leader with an open-door policy. 
Chitwood said he’s hoping that his municipal mindset that will bring big changes to the county.
“If you elect me as your sheriff, you are going to get a sheriff that works 24 hours a day, who is accessible, transparent, passionate and hardworking.  I am going to be engaged in our community,” Chitwood said.
Chitwood is known for being visible in the community. Chitwood said that if he is elected sheriff, he hopes families invite him into their homes to discuss the changes they would like to see in the community.
Volusia County Capt. Dave Brannon, Volusia County Chief Deputy Eric Dietrich and retired Seminole County Deputy Wendell Bradford are also running for sheriff.
Volusia County Sheriff Ben Johnson announced his retirement earlier this year.
Johnson said he's supporting Dietrich for the job.

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