SEMINOLE COUNTY, Fla. — Seminole County Sheriff Don Eslinger will not seek re-election and will retire at the end of his current term.
"I am truly grateful that the people have the confidence in this organization. Actually, my entire career as sheriff," said Eslinger.
At a news conference Wednesday, Eslinger said his retirement will be effective in January 2017.
Eslinger has served as Seminole County sheriff since he was appointed by the governor of Florida in 1991. He was first elected to the position in 1992, according to the sheriff's website.
Raw: Sheriff announces retirement
Eslinger has been with the sheriff's office for 38 years and started his career as a dispatcher.
"Is politics on the radar? I haven't made any decisions," said Eslinger said.
About an hour after Eslinger announced his plans to retire, Seminole County Sheriff's Office Chief Deputy Dennis Lemma announced his plans to run for sheriff in the 2016 election.
Eslinger gave Lemma a ringing endorsement.
"He has been a part of it. He is running on his record and he has a great record here. It's going to be hugely successful in the future," Eslinger said. “I’m excited about the future of this organization.”
Lemma, 43, started with the sheriff's office in 1992, according to a press release. He was appointed chief deputy in 2013.
"I feel like I am the best-qualified person to continue on what we have done, but more importantly anticipate the future,” Lemma said.
Eslinger will stay on the job until the end of his term, in January 2017.
He makes $153,000 a year.
He also announced that Undersheriff, Steve Harriett will retire in January 2017.
Harriett has been Eslinger’s second in command for 24 years.
WFTV
