Wayne County, NC — Ricky Hooks, a lifelong Wayne County resident, law enforcement professional, and Republican candidate for Sheriff, officially filed today to appear on the 2026 ballot for Wayne County Sheriff. Hooks’ campaign centers on restoring accountability, rebuilding trust inside the Sheriff’s Office, and delivering law enforcement services based on the highest ethical and professional standards.

“Today’s filing is important for Wayne County, the voters will have an option for sheriff on March 3, 2026, something they have not had for over a decade.”

With 30 years of credible service, Hooks honorably retired from the NC State Highway Patrol in 2021 as the Troop C Commander in Raleigh, NC.

Hooks holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from NC Wesleyan College and was inducted into the Criminal Justice Honor Society for academic excellence. Hooks is a graduate of NC State University’s nationally recognized law enforcement leadership course, Administrative Officer’s Management Program. Hooks has his Advanced NC Law Enforcement Certificate and has been a certified specialized law enforcement instructor for over 20 years.

“I have spent most of my adult life as a fulltime law enforcement officer, serving in many facets of leadership. I know how to get things done; I have seen what works and what doesn’t.”

Hooks stated that his candidacy is motivated by his belief that the citizens of Wayne County, as well as the members of the Sheriff’s Office, deserve a Sheriff who has a history of demonstrating organizational consistency, equal accountability, and effective leadership.