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The Sheriff Scoop-off at Scoops ice cream started on March 24, with Sumter County Sheriff Eric Bryant drawing a crowd on his home town turf despite bad weather. The rules for the scoop off were simple. Whoever could draw the most customers would win bragging rights, with both Sheriff’s Department’s receiving a donation of $250 to the charity of their choice. Sumter chose the Smith Smarr Foundation, which serves officers by ensuring they have appropriate gear and education. Crisp choose The Warrior Fund, which also supports public safety personnel. The victor was decided March 27, when Crisp County Sheriff Billy Hancock took a turn with a scoop.

Folks started trickling in for Hancock’s turn around 5 pm. From the light fixtures shaped like paper maché swirls, to the orange booths beside row after row of unique candies, the interior was not unlike a scene from a Willy Wonka movie. Not only was the interior eclectic, but so was the attire chosen by Hancock, who donned a clown’s suit after his original choice of an old sheriff’s uniform proved too tight. Folks a variety of ages soon gathered to enjoy the ice cream after a bus of Crisp County residents arrived to show their support.

Hancock gave an interview after his scoop-off. “It’s been a lot of fun, met a lot of people, and Crisp County showed up Crisp County strong.”

Hancock gave some of the chocolates and strawberry flavored ice cream as the most popular flavors during his scoop off, giving his own personal favorite as cookie dough. During Bryant’s scoop off, butter pecan flew the fastest, which is also Bryant’s personal favorite.

Hancock also gave his favorite part of the scoop-off. “The young adults and the kids were very excited to be here. I was really amazed that some of them wanted their picture made with the sheriff clown.” Hancock stated he was glad to spend time with them out of uniform. “So hopefully next time we have an encounter, it will be just as great, because they know kind of who we are.”

Sheriff Eric Bryant showed on the scene, speaking of his relationship with Hancock. “My entire law enforcement career, Sheriff Hancock has always been a dear friend of mine. He was a mentor for me when I started as a chief deputy back in 2005. We’ve always had an open line of communication, and we always enjoy fellowship with one another.”

While Bryant spoke warmly of his friend, he gave him stiff competition on his day to scoop. “It was actually pouring down rain, but the people were lined up all the way down the sidewalk.”

Hancock also shared the spirit of friendly competition, teasing Bryant after locking him out of the store.

Bryant was declared the winner, having drawn the largest crowd. Hancock was still optimistic, noting he only lost by 75 people after coming across the river, hinting at a rematch.