WS Chronicle

Less than 24 hours after several minority candidates made a huge splash in municipal elections across the country, Bobby Kimbrough Jr. officially put himself in the running to become the first African American to serve as sheriff of Forsyth County. 

The Chronicle caught up with Kimbrough moments after he signed documents at the Board of Elections, to discuss his chances of becoming the next Sheriff.  He said, “Running for sheriff is something I’ve always wanted to do and after consulting with some great minds I decided if not now then when and if not me then who? 

“I just felt the need to go back into something I’ve known all my life to make a difference.”

Born and raised right here in the Twin City, Kimbrough’s experience in law enforcement dates back more than 30 years and includes stints at the local, state, and federal levels.  Since retiring as a Senior Special Agent with the U.S. Department of Justice last summer, Kimbrough has traveled the country as a motivational speaker and promoting his books; Surviving the Stop: Change the Atmosphere, Change the Outcome, and Beyond Midnight: Helping You Make it to Daybreak.  

Although he retired and followed his dream of becoming a published author, Kimbrough never lost his will to help others in the community he grew up in. When he wasn’t traveling the country Kimbrough spent time volunteering at Philo-Hill Magnet School where he mentored a group of young men.

Even though he enjoyed helping the students at Philo-Hill Kimbrough said, serving as sheriff would be the ultimate way to give back to the place that gave him so much. 

“It would be an honor to serve because I’m a product of this community. From the school system to the people in the community they made Bobby Kimbrough who he is today,” he said. “To come back and share my expertise would be a blessing.” 

He was BUSTA’S PERSON OF THE WEEK in the Oct. 5, 2017, issue of The Chronicle (www.wschronicle.com/2017/10/meet-special-agent-bfk-007-soul/).

After making his candidacy public on Facebook locals were eager to show their support for Kimbrough. In less than 3 hours the post received nearly 100 likes and dozens of comments. Mary Carlton wrote, “Where’s the ballots? I’m ready”.

Topping her comment off with a “thumbs up”, Pearl Wright wrote, “You have got my support.The right man for the job.”

Retired captain with the Winston-Salem Police Department Bill Cobb, is another strong believer that Kimbrough is the right man to lead the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Department into the future. 

Cobb who was also born and raised here in Winston-Salem, spent 30 years with the WSPD. He said,” after hearing Special Agent Kimbrough’s emphasis on integrity, accountability, and moving forward for the future of Forsyth County it was real interesting for me. 

“He’s committed to the people of Forsyth County,” continued Cobb. “I think he’s a great candidate for sheriff.” 

Incumbent Sheriff William T. Schatzman was elected in 2002 and is currently serving his fourth term as sheriff of Forsyth County. Election Day 2018 is set for Tuesday, Nov. 6.