By Billy Davis

Former Panola County supervisor Mike Darby has qualified to run as Panola County sheriff.

Darby’s entry in the race makes five who have qualified to seek the county seat formerly held by Hugh “Shot” Bright.

Bright’s death last September set up a special election that will be decided on November 2, 2010.

Bright’s chief deputy, Otis Griffin, was appointed interim sheriff by county supervisors.

Griffin has since qualified to seek the office.

Sheriff’s candidate Phillip Herron jumped into the race early, on Christmas Eve last year, followed by Richard McCarty.

William Hannah has also qualified.

Darby turned in his qualifying papers last Friday, said a spokesmman for the circuit clerk’s office.

Darby has served as District 3 supervisor and sought the post again in 2007 as challenger. He lost to current board president Gary Thompson.