Meet Your Candidates

About Tony Haley

Hello, my name is Tony Haley and I am pleased to formally announce my candidacy for Pope County Sheriff. I grew up in Pope County and was a 1987 graduate of Hector High School. I pursued further education at Arkansas State University, obtaining a bachelor's degree in communications.

My law enforcement career began with the Russellville Police Department in 1993, where I served as a patrolman before transitioning to the Criminal Investigation Division as a Detective. I later joined the Arkansas State Police and upon completion of Troop School, I was assigned to Highway Patrol Troop I in Searcy County, later transferring to Troop J Highway Patrol in Conway County.

Subsequently, I was selected to join the Criminal Investigation Division as a Special Agent for Company E out of Harrison, focusing on narcotics in Pope and Johnson Counties, serving in this capacity for 23 years until my retirement in 2023.

Throughout my 30-year tenure in law enforcement, I have received comprehensive training covering various areas including narcotics and active shooter scenarios among others. During my time as a Narcotics Agent, I delivered drug awareness programs to high schools in Pope County in collaboration with the 5th Judicial Drug Task Force. My community involvement is extensive, including 17 years of service on the Hector School Board, and coaching youth sports for 12 years.

I am currently a Board Member of BLOOM, a recovery program for women suffering from drug addiction and/or domestic violence in Pope County. Additionally, I have had the honor of being the Pastor of Caglesville Community Church for more than eight years. After considerable prayer and discernment, I believe that God has called me out of retirement to serve and protect the people of Pope County.

I humbly request your vote and extend my sincerest blessings to you.

About Carey James

I would like to introduce Carey James as my Chief Deputy running mate.

Carey is currently serving as the Russellville Police Department Assistant Chief of Police. Carey began his career at RPD in 1994 as a Patrolman after graduating from ATU with a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and a minor in Criminal Justice.

Carey has held the rank of Patrolman, Sergeant of Patrol, Criminal Investigator, Sergeant of Criminal Investigation, Lieutenant and Assistant Chief of Police. Additionally, Carey has served as a Crisis Negotiator and currently oversees the School Resource Officers, the Criminal Patrol Unit, Drug Task Force Agent and manages all special events within the city.

Carey has excelled in every aspect of law enforcement, proving his effectiveness across all areas of service. Throughout his career, he has consistently demonstrated integrity, dedication, and a profound commitment to public service. Having known Carey for over 31 years, I can personally vouch for his outstanding character. It is an honor to have Carey as my running mate—a principled Christian, devoted husband, and caring father.