Metro Council weighs two finalists for Davidson County sheriff

Jared Irvine and Ruby Joiner appeared before the Metro Council on Tuesday to compete for the Davidson County sheriff position. The council has narrowed the field to these two individuals in the ongoing search for a new leader for the county’s law enforcement agency.

The vacancy stems from the departure of Daron Hall, who served as the longest-tenured sheriff in Davidson County history. Hall announced in October 2026 that he would be stepping down from the role. Ruby Joiner currently serves as the acting sheriff, while Jared Irvine is seeking the interim appointment. Irvine stated that he intends to run for the position again in the next election cycle, regardless of the outcome of the current selection process.

During their presentations, the candidates outlined their visions for the department. Irvine acknowledged the efforts of his predecessors while emphasizing a need for change. "I respect the work of Sheriff Joiner and Sheriff Hall," Irvine said. "But I also believe that there are opportunities for improvement. I’m prepared to listen, evaluate the situation and make the hard decisions needed to move this agency into the future."

Joiner focused on her connection to the detention facilities. "I think I belong in jails," Joiner said. "I was waked some years ago by an officer who said, ‘you’re a social worker. Should you be finding housing for people?’ I had to explain to him that I belong in the jail. And I do more than find people housing by the way. I listen to people."

The full Metro Council will vote on the final selection next Tuesday, Nov. 17. The chosen candidate will serve as the interim sheriff until the remainder of the current term expires. A formal election to fill the sheriff position is scheduled for 2027.