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Second GOP candidate announces run for Peoria County sheriff

Chris Watkins
Chris Watkins

A second Republican is entering the race for Peoria County sheriff.

Captain Chris Watkins has served with the office for 18 years. He's a lifelong Peoria County resident, attending the Peoria District 150 and Limestone school districts.

"Under my leadership, the men and women of the Sheriff's Office will focus on holding criminals accountable and will keep the community safer through cutting-edge training for our employees," said Watkins in a statement. "We will also revolutionize re-entry pathways for people returning from incarceration."

He's an Iraq War veteran, and was named one of Peoria Magazine's 40 Leaders Under 40 last year.

Peoria County Sheriff's Deputy Blaine Duhs is also running for the sheriff's seat. Incumbent sheriff Brian Asbell isn't running for another term.

Tim is the News Director at WCBU Peoria Public Radio.