After three terms as Lincoln County Sheriff, and 38 years as a law enforcement officer, Sheriff Jeff Jaeger is announcing his decision to not seek re-election this fall and move on to other adventures.
“This has been a difficult decision to make given my passion for the job and the great relationships and friendships I have developed over the years,” Jaeger said. “We have achieved so many successes over the last 11 years I have served as your Sheriff. Among those, an increased focus on illegal drug dealers leading to unprecedented indictments and convictions, the development of two K-9 teams, equipping and training of Deputies to meet present day challenges, establishment of core values that respect the principles of Lincoln County Citizens and visitors, implementation of countless cost saving measures and increased revenue endeavors leading to efficiencies and responsible spending of tax payer dollars.
“While the decision to step down at the end of 2018 was not easy, (in fact after 38 years it feels more like leaving an old friend), I feel confident about the future of the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office and the service it will continue to provide to our citizens,” Jaeger continued. “Early on in my career, my mentors instilled in me how important it was to train and develop your replacement. It was good advice that I took seriously and have been doing so for the last 11 years, focusing on my senior patrol Lieutenant, Ken Schneider. Ken is a good honest man with great values and a love for people. He understands the utmost importance of public trust and has been a leader for this agency in so many capacities. He is very well liked and respected in the law enforcement community and I feel good about his ability to lead this organization.
“I would like to thank everyone who has been an important part of my career,” Jaeger added. “My wife Tracey who has always been there for me and sacrificed so much, my children and entire family, my friends, the members of this agency for their commitment to a vision, my mentors, the Lincoln County Board of Supervisors and Lincoln County government for their support, our local law enforcement agencies for their assistance and cooperation, the many civic groups and of course a big thank you to the citizens of Lincoln County for your trust. I have been so blessed in so many ways in this career and I thank God every day for that. It has been an absolute privilege and honor to be your Sheriff.”