"Many citizens, elected officials and members of the business community have encouraged me to seek the office of Sheriff for the City of Hampton, an organization I personally and professionally hold near and dear to my heart. After careful consideration and some open and honest discussions with my family, I have decided to accept the challenge to qualify as a candidate for the June 8, 2021 Primary Election, to fill the seat held by the late Sheriff B.J. Roberts.
"As you may know, I have been employed with the Sheriff's office for 36 years and was recently appointed Sheriff by the Hampton City Council. I have served as the Undersheriff for 22 of those years. Therefore, I am prepared to continue and build upon Roberts' legacy of success.
"Additionally, I have experience working in various positions and levels of responsibility in corrections. I have supervised the inmate classifications and records unit and commanded the court services and corrections units as the Jail Administrator, just to name a few.
"As Sheriff, my vision for the future is to Lead, Innovate and Inspire. This vision includes enhancing inmate release programs by using modern technology to link our office with agencies that can assist our inmates with a smooth transition back to society once released. I believe and know that it is extremely important to create a Jail Management Network with community partners.
'We also need an expanded staff wellness program and provide tools for additional support for our staff. Corrections is a demanding, high stress career because of the population we serve. By addressing the physical and mental needs of our deputies and pursuing a holistic approach to wellness, we will alleviate stress, encourage fitness and improve retention.
"It is time to build leaders in the Hampton Sheriff's Office who will perpetuate the standards of quality that ensure the Hampton City Jail continues to boast a Triple Crown accredited rating of excellence.
"The Sheriff of the City of Hampton must be capable of making bold, transformational changes to meet the needs of an ever changing inmate population. I AM THAT SHERIFF. My years of service and passion for corrections are well documented. I am bold, energetic, a collaborator and have been a catalyst for change in this industry for decades.
"A contribution to my campaign made payable to "Friends of Karen Bowden for Sheriff" will help to ensure that I lead this office to even greater succcess. I am asking for your support. Your gift of $10, $25, $50, $100, $250, $500 or more will help me raise the initial funds needed to launch this campaign. As you may know, campaigns are costly. Team Bowden needs your financial commitment to help convey our positive message to voters.
"It's really easy to make a donation right here on our website by clicking Donate in the menu at the top of the page at any time.
"If you have questions or require additional information concerning my vision and goals for the Hampton Sheriff's Office, please do not hesitate to contact me at (757) 881-8941. I look forward to talking about my vision for progress in greater detail and answering any questions that will guide your decision to support me and our campaign.
"Thank you in advance for your support. Please send your check to: Friends of Karen Bowden for Sheriff, P.O. Box 484, Hampton, VA 23669.
"I look forward to seeing you on the campaign trail as I endeavor to make bold, transformational changes."
Karen E. Bowden
Sheriff, City of Hampton