Pasco Sheriff Bob White has amassed more than $136,000 in contributions for his re-election campaign.
The combined total of his four opponents: $44,844.20.
White's efforts got a huge boost Feb. 29 at a $100-a-plate fundraising dinner at a private Land O'Lakes ranch where Gov. Charlie Crist was the honored guest.
County Commissioner Ann Hildebrand, who attended the dinner, said the event took in some $89,000.
Democrat Kim Bogart, a former sheriff's captain fired by White when he took office, is in distant second with almost $26,000. His reports show contributions from a handful of current deputies as well as Darlene Greene, who ran unsuccessfully against White in 2004.
Robert Sullivan, who recently retired after 26 years with the agency, has about $10,000 in donations. So far, he is White's only challenger in the Republican primary. He also has support from several deputies.
Democrat Jeff Deremer, a state probation officer, has almost $8,000 in his war chest, including $500 from Detective John Connolly, president of the deputies union.
Democrat Bobby Kinzy, a retired mechanic with no law enforcement experience, has collected just $520.
White's donation roster reads like a who's who of prominent Pasco residents: ranchers, lawyers, bankers. Businesses including construction companies, law firms and funeral homes also are supporting White, who is seeking a third term. Several members of his command staff and captains have given the maximum $500 individual contribution, records show.
Seven donations totaling $3,200 were refunded, according to White's latest expenditure report. His campaign treasurer, Michael Kindt, did not return a call for comment Thursday.
Of all the candidates, Bogart has contributed the most out of his own pocket, giving more than $13,000 in cash, loans and in-kind contributions.
Times staff writer Chuin-Wei Yap contributed to this report. Molly Moorhead can be reached at moorhead@sptimes.com or (727) 869-6245.
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