Howard County Republicans have drafted a Baltimore City detective who investigates shootings to run for sheriff, using a special provision that allows for late filings in campaign races.
Tim Galt, 37, of Marriottsville, will seek to unseat current Sheriff Charles Cave in a three-way race. The filing deadline for primary elections was July 3.
Galt, who has been employed by the Baltimore City Police Department since 1996, said he believes those skills will translate over well to the job of sheriff.
“As a detective, that?s all I do is lead,” he said. “I know I?d make a good sheriff.”
Cave said the late development wasn?t surprising because he anticipated such a move from the GOP.
“When I finish with the primary, if I win that, then I?ll go on with Mr. Galt,” he said.
Democrat James Fitzgerald, president of the Howard County police union, who is also running for sheriff, welcomed Galt into the race.
“There?s always room for one more,” he said. “Sheriff Cave has been a good sheriff, but it?s time for a change. We need to improve the department?s technology and bring the department into the 21st century.”
In response, Cave said the department was “doing well” and instructed voters to look at the office?s performance during the eight years of his leadership.
“I?m going to run on my record,” he said.
Howard County sheriffs mainly handle courthouse security and serving warrants.
