Henrico sheriff’s major to run for Richmond sheriff

A Henrico County sheriff's major yesterday announced her plans to run for Richmond sheriff.

Maj. Antionette V. Irving stood among more than 30 people outside Main Street Station in Richmond and asked residents to support her campaign, which she called an "urban express" that will go from the train station to the Richmond Sheriff's Office.

"Let's go," Irving said. "All aboard."

Irving said this month that she was running for the job against Sheriff C.T. Woody, but she made her official announcement yesterday. Both are running as Democrats.

Irving said she brings more than 20 years of experience and a no-nonsense management style, and she vowed to improve medical care at the city jail.

Irving, 44, in 2004 became the first woman to be promoted to major at the Henrico Sheriff's Office. She was hired in 1988 as a correctional deputy. She was born in Richmond and lives in the city.

Woody announced this month his intention to run for a second term. The Democratic primary is June 9.

The Richmond Sheriff's Office, with about 450 employees, runs one of the largest correctional institutions in the state. It also provides courthouse security and serves legal papers in thousands of civil suits every year.

Contact Reed Williams at (804) 649-6332 or .