Mason Bynum has officially announced his candidacy for reelection as Dale County Sheriff, citing a continued commitment to public safety, strong law enforcement, and protecting the county’s most vulnerable residents.
In his announcement, Bynum reflected on his time leading the Dale County Sheriff’s Office, calling the role the greatest honor of his career. He emphasized that from the beginning of his tenure, his top priority has been protecting children and holding those who prey on them accountable.
“We have pursued those who prey on children relentlessly and unapologetically,” Bynum said. “We have stood up for those who cannot speak for themselves, and we have done so without hesitation.”
Bynum highlighted efforts made under his leadership to strengthen enforcement operations, expand the use of technology, invest in advanced training, and build partnerships aimed at reducing crime and prioritizing victims. He said those initiatives have helped ensure the Sheriff’s Office remains prepared, professional, and ready to respond when threats arise.
“When evil threatens our communities, the men and women of the Dale County Sheriff’s Office answer the call,” Bynum stated. “When criminals test our resolve, they find a Sheriff’s Office that is ready to act.”
The sheriff also expressed pride in the deputies and staff who serve alongside him, praising their dedication and bravery in carrying out the mission of the office.
While pointing to progress made during his current term, Bynum acknowledged that more work remains.
“The job is not finished,” he said. “There is more work to do.”
Bynum concluded his announcement by asking for continued prayers, trust, and support from the community as he seeks another term as Dale County Sheriff.
The upcoming election will determine who will lead the Dale County Sheriff’s Office in continuing efforts to combat crime and protect residents across the county.
Jayme Stayton will host a State of the City Address and Concerned Citizens Meeting later this month, giving residents an opportunity to hear updates on key city issues and voice their concerns directly to city leadership.
During the address, Mayor Stayton is expected to discuss several topics that have recently raised concern among Daleville residents, including city finances, crime, and proposed changes to city services. One major issue to be addressed is the possible privatization of the city’s trash pickup service through contractor MDI, as well as matters related to city limb and bulk pickup.
Crime will also be a focal point of the discussion, particularly recent break-ins and drug-related activity within the city. In a previous interview with WDHN, Mayor Stayton said, “Daleville is too small to have big city problems, and I don’t want big city problems.”
Following the address, city officials will open the floor to allow citizens to ask questions and share their concerns.
The State of the City Address will take place on Thursday, February 12, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the Cultural and Convention Center, located at 750 S. Daleville Avenue.
Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in the discussion.
The Dothan Police Department is asking for the public’s help in locating a runaway juvenile who was last seen earlier this week.
Police say 16-year-old Jeffrey Isaiaha Cummings was last seen on January 12, 2026, at approximately 6:00 a.m. near the 2600 block of Creekwood Drive in Dothan.
According to authorities, Cummings may currently be in the area of Pine Hills Drive and Third Avenue and may be accompanied by another juvenile. Investigators say it is unknown what he was wearing at the time he was last seen.
Cummings is described as a Black male, standing approximately 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing around 150 pounds. He has black hair and brown eyes.
The runaway case remains active.
Anyone with information on the whereabouts of Jeffrey Cummings is urged to contact the Dothan Police Department at (334) 793-0215 or (334) 615-3632.
