Gardner congratulates Atkins on sheriff election

Facing a 12-percentage point deficit in the Clark County sheriff race, Shane Gardner has conceded defeat to Chuck Atkins following the second day’s counting of ballot returns.

“To all of those who supported me during this campaign; Thank you!” Gardner wrote in a statement. “I ask you to continue supporting me by congratulating Chuck Atkins and rallying behind all of (the Clark County Sheriff Office) as we transition to new leadership.”

How the race would pan out was one of the more intriguing questions during much of the election season. After outgoing Sheriff Garry Lucas announced his retirement last spring, the field of candidates jumped to four names, each one hoping to become the county’s first new sheriff in 24 years.

In July, the field was whittled down to two finalists for the position: Republican Atkins, a retired sheriff’s office commander, and nonpartisan Gardner, a current sergeant.

Gardner ran on a platform of community outreach. He emphasized the need for more community resources and partnerships.

But with 35 years in the sheriff’s office, Atkins pointed to his experience, saying it was needed to lead the office through the changes that lie ahead.

Lucas shied away from endorsing either candidate and instead focused his attention on campaigning for the home rule charter.

In his statement, Gardner said he looked forward to working closely with Atkins and the new administration.

“I am going to work hard to contribute to the success of his administration because we are here to serve you and we will do that as one team to the best of our abilities,” Gardner said.