Wiles brings years of leadership experience to the campaign.

He said he hopes that his reputation as a fair and just front man for the El Paso police department will help in his race for sheriff.

Wiles said, "I think a lot of times there is a mentality that the sheriff handles law enforcement in the county and the police department handles law enforcement in the city limits, but in actuality the sheriff has a responsibility county-wide."

Other candidates vying for the seat include: retired El Paso police Sgt. Mary Lou Carrillo, retired El Paso immigration and customs enforcement assistant Maria Guadalupe Dempsey, retired El Paso Police Chief Carlos Leon, retired U.S. Marshals Service supervisory Deputy Alejandro Patiño, Sunland Park Police Chief Jose Ramirez, Lt. Marvin Sarrasco Ryals, a 30-year veteran of the sheriff's office, retired El Paso police Lt. Gabriel Serna, retired sheriff's office Cmdr. Larry G. Wilkins, and retired director of field operations for customs and border protection Luis Garcia.