I have decided not to seek re-election after my term expires January 1, 2025. I have proudly served as an elected law enforcement officer since 2005 and you elected me to be your sheriff in 2008. Toward the end of my near 16-year tenure as your Sheriff, I made plans to change career paths. I felt I could not end my career as your Sheriff until I had a person lined up to take my position, one who I knew could handle the job. I am now confident I have that person.
I would like to thank all the men and women who worked for me with integrity and professionalism. Your service has been invaluable. I personally and publicly would like to thank each and every member of my current staff for your constant support and professional duty. Thank you for your dedication to this profession. Keep up the good work of protecting and serving our county in the coming years.
I am very proud of the work my office has accomplished since I was originally elected. The number of criminals sentenced to prison under my administration is unprecedented. The hardest part of being a sheriff is building a quality, professional staff. I am proud to say I currently have some of the best staff members a sheriff can ask for. Once my term is over, I plan to continue in law enforcement by assisting several agencies with criminal investigations and working a federal contract with the United States Marshals Office. However, my passion for scuba will call for me to pour myself into my scuba business in Jefferson City.
I began this letter telling you I have found the person who I believe is ready to handle my job as your next sheriff. That person is currently my Chief Deputy, Scott John. Currently, I have Chief John handling the majority of the administrative duties of the office and overseeing the day-to-day operations. Once again, and not to my surprise, he is excelling. Scott does plan to run for my position and I would be proud to turn it over to him. He has prepared, but has not announced his intentions publicly yet out of respect for me. Waiting instead for me to make my formal decision. As always, his character and work ethic goes unmatched.
Scott began with my office as a volunteer Chaplain 11 years ago and it didn’t take me long to see the leader in him. He has served in almost every position in my office and has excelled at all of them. He has also overseen the applications and receipt of several hundred thousand dollars of grants during his time with my office. He has been responsible for many of the equipment and safety upgrades my staff has received. I cannot think of a better person for me to turn the reigns over to than Scott. He has my full support in the election next year.
I appreciate all the support and trust you have given me in my career as your Sheriff. No matter where my new career decisions may take me, Maries County will always be home in my heart.
Your Sheriff, Chris Heitman
