ADAMS COUNTY, Neb. — The race for Adams County Sheriff is taking shape as a second Republican candidate enters the contest.

Voters will decide between two longtime law enforcement leaders in a May primary.

Deputy Sheriff Sergeant Heath Lemke announced his run for Adams County Sheriff this week, becoming the second Republican in the race.

Lemke has more than 26 years of law enforcement experience and has served Adams County since 1999.

His announcement follows Chief Deputy Kevin Mauck, who filed to run on the first day candidates could enter the race.

Mauck began his law enforcement career in 1988 and joined the Adams County sheriff’s office in 1991.

Both candidates say that they want to build on progress made under the current sheriff while continuing to strengthen staffing and operations within the department.