OHIO COUNTY, W.Va.

Republican Sheriff Pat Butler is facing a challenge from his former boss, Democrat Tom Burgoyne.

The debate, moderated by NEWS9's Eric Minor, was sponsored by the Wheeling Area Chamber of Commerce and held at West Liberty University.

Burgoyne made news when he crossed party lines and endorsed his former chief's bed for sheriff four years ago.

Now Butler accused Burgoyne of using the sheriff's office for political gain.

Burgoyne said Butler had caused morale in the department to drop.

Butler declined Burgoyne's handshake at the end of the debate.

If Butler wins the general election, this would be his last term because West Virginia sheriffs are limited to two consecutive terms.

Burgoyone has previously stated that if he wins in November, he will only seek one term.

Tonight's sheriff's debate was part of a "doubleheader" at the college campus.

The evening began with a look at two candidates seeking to be the first new county commissioner elected since 1999.

Republican Patty Levenson is running against Democrat Orphy Klempa.

The two disagreed on whether the wild escape theme park at the Highlands will ever be built.

The two candidates are seeing the seat vacated by current circuit judge David Sims.