Only Commissioner Vernon Bryant would confirm there is dissention among board members, although he stopped short of calling it a deadlock.

Board Chairman James Pierce and other commissioners also declined to say if there was a deadlock along any racial or other lines. Calling it a deadlock, Pierce said following the special meeting, would only be assumption.

Commissioners left today’s meeting with the understanding they would continue to work towards naming a sheriff at their next meetings and with the understanding they would only vote on the matter when all commissioners were present.

“We don’t have a decision,” Pierce said after the board reconvened in open session.

Commissioner Carolyn Johnson said afterward there would be more discussions.

“I’m dissatisfied,” Pierce said. “I had hoped we could do something.”

“I don’t know if frustrated is the word,” Bryant said. “We just need to be of one accord.”

Weldon Police Chief Mark Macon, one of the candidates for appointment, said, “I believe and trust they can make a decision at some point in time. I’m optimistic and look to them moving forward with the process.”

Macon said he was not aware of who the frontrunners are.

Halifax County Sheriff’s Office Chief Deputy Wes Tripp, another candidate for the appointment, had no comment when reached this morning.

Chuck Hasty, who also put his name up for consideration, said, "I'm disappointed a decision wasn't reached today. I'm glad they are taking all five candidates into consideration."