In a significant announcement made on Friday morning, Sheriff Joe Purvis of Giles County declared his intention to run for a full term in the upcoming 2026 election. Purvis, who was appointed by the Giles County Commission in November 2024, stepped into the role to fill the unexpired term of former Sheriff Kyle Helton. Helton had resigned to take a position with the Tennessee Department of Homeland Security, paving the way for Purvis to take the helm.
Upon his appointment, Purvis made a commitment to uphold the high standards of service that had been established during Helton’s tenure while also focusing on modernizing the Sheriff’s Department. Since taking office, he has prioritized building strong relationships within the community, ensuring that deputies are equipped with the necessary resources, and maintaining a prominent presence at various local events. His efforts have included outreach programs such as “Coffee with a Cop,” which fosters dialogue between law enforcement and the community, as well as collaborations aimed at enhancing public safety and trust.
In his announcement regarding the 2026 election, Purvis expressed that his decision stems from a deep commitment to the residents of Giles County and a desire to continue the positive momentum established during his current term. The responsibilities of the Giles County Sheriff’s Office encompass enforcing both state and local laws, managing the county jail, providing security for the courts, and serving civil and criminal processes. Purvis underscored that his campaign will emphasize ongoing transparency and active community engagement, aiming to further strengthen the bond between law enforcement and the citizens they serve.