LAKE COUNTY, Fla. — Lake County Sheriff Gary Borders announced he plans to retire at the end of his term.
Borders had filed on Feb. 1 to run for re-election in 2016. He has held the office since he was appointed in 2006 and was re-elected in 2008 and 2012.
During his tenure, Borders created the agency's first-ever cyber crimes unit and street crimes unit. The agency became accredited for the first time in 2007 and was awarded re-accreditations in 2010 and 2013.
Borders called Lake County the "greatest county in the state," and called his employees the "finest men and women in law enforcement."
Borders said in an email to his employees:
"After much thought and consideration, I believe the time has come. I would like to share with you that I am retiring as sheriff of Lake County at the end of my current term in office, January 2017.
"This has not been an easy decision to make, as I have garnered many friends along the way. Law enforcement has been a way of life for me for most of my adulthood, as I began my career at the very young age of (19 years old). While I had hoped for a successful career, I never imagined I would serve over 36 years and retire as the sheriff of this great county!
"I am proud of you all. I am proud of the agency's accomplishments and our work together, day in and day out, to provide dedicated service to the citizens of Lake County.
"Once again, thank you for your friendship and confidence in me."
Cox Media Group
