Murfreesboro – Deputy Chief Steve Spence has officially announced his candidacy for Rutherford County Sheriff in the Republican Primary. A lifelong public servant with more than three decades of experience in law enforcement, Spence brings unmatched knowledge, leadership, and commitment to keeping Rutherford County safe.

“I’m running because my 38 years with the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Department have prepared me to lead with fairness, accountability, and integrity,” said Spence. “Our county deserves a Sheriff who not only understands the challenges we face but has already been working to solve them.”

As Deputy Chief, Spence currently oversees the department’s budget, human resources, recruitment/hiring, facility operations, Community Engagement and vehicle fleet. Under his leadership, the Sheriff’s Department has secured more than $17 million in grants to improve public safety while safeguarding taxpayer dollars. The Sheriff’s Office has secured more than $19 million in grants to improve public safety. $15 million of these funds under his leadership.

Prior to his current role, Spence supervised patrol, criminal and narcotics investigations, school resource officers, judicial services, criminal/civil warrants and warrants/records. A former Commander of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team and a recipient of the Deputy of the Year award, he has consistently demonstrated strong leadership in high-pressure situations.

Beyond his professional service, Spence has volunteered with A Soldier’s Child, a national nonprofit a Rutherford County nonprofit supporting children who have lost a parent in military service. His dedication to both his community and his country reflects the same values instilled in him by his late father, a military veteran and local farmer.

Spence and his wife, Darlene, have been married for 35 years. They live on their family farm in Midland, where they raise cattle, goats, chickens, and ducks. Together, they have three children and six grandchildren.

“My vision is simple,” Spence said. “Protect our neighborhoods, support our deputies with the resources they need, and lead with integrity so that Rutherford County remains a safe and strong place to live, work, and raise a family.”

The Republican Primary election will be held May 5, 2026, with early voting beginning April 15. The General Election will follow on August 6, 2026.