VAN BUREN, Ark. -- Crawford County Sheriff Mike Allen (D) prevailed against challenger Jim Freeman in Tuesday's Democratic primary and will face Independent Jerry Cowen in November. Allen received 67 percent of the votes.

Crawford County Sheriff Faces Challenger In Tuesday's Democratic Primary

Both have several decades of law enforcement experience, and they want to use that knowledge for the good of the county, they said.

Mike Allen has been the sheriff in Crawford County since 2005. He counts a new sex offender tracking system and a savings of about half a million dollars to the county among his accomplishments.

The status of the Crawford County Jail will be an important issue for the next sheriff. Allen is conducting a study to see what options are available, including a possible expansion of the county jail.

Allen also stressed that he has been able to add deputies while trimming costs, something he wants to continue to do. However, Freeman said there is more money to be saved for taxpayers without sacrificing service.

Another issue a lot of voters are concerned about is immigration. Allen believes the county does not have the money or manpower to tackle such a large problem on its own.

Allen will face Independent candidate Jerry Cowan in the November election.