KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Four candidates have announced their intent to run as candidates for Knox County Sheriff during the 2026 election.

The 2026 primary election in Knox County is less than a year away. On May 5, 2026, Knox County voters will be selecting who will fill a number of roles, including county mayor, trustee, and sheriff.

As of August 14, four candidates have announced that they will be running for Knox County Sheriff. Those candidates are: • Bernie Lyon: Lyon is currently serving as chief deputy with KCSO. The agency shared earlier in August that Lyon has served with the agency and in the community for more than 40 years. • Brent Gibson: Gibson is a former Assistant Chief Deputy and SWAT Commander with KCSO. • Jimmy "JJ" Jones: From 2007 to 2018, JJ Jones was the K

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