FARMINGTON – Tom White, a candidate for Franklin County sheriff, announced who he would choose for the next chief deputy if he wins the election.

White, a detective in the Sheriff’s Department, called Sgt. Steven Lowell “a nice, young, bright fellow,” in an interview Monday at the Farmington Fair.

Lowell, 37, has been with the department since 1991 and was a patrolman with Rangeley Police prior to that. A law enforcement officer since 1989, Lowell also instructs at the Maine Criminal Justice Academy.

White said Lowell had certain criteria he sought in a candidate for the position.

“Steve has an extensive background in training and command, which fits into both my short and long term plans for the sheriff’s department,” stated White in a press release.

“Everyone Steve works with here in Franklin County, along with law enforcement officers throughout Maine, respect him,” he added.

He also asked chiefs of other area police departments for their input.

“It is important that the chief deputy is respected by other chiefs in the area,” White said. He expects to be working more closely with other area departments in the future.