Hancock Co. sheriff stepping down after 7 terms

After 51 years of service to Hancock County in the sheriff's office and seven terms as sheriff, Michael Heldman is ready to pass the torch. "It has been my privilege to serve as the elected Sheriff of Hancock County," he said. Heldman said it has been an honor to serve as the county's sheriff since 1997. But, he has decided not to run for an eighth term in the March primary election next year. "I've seen our community grow and prosper while remaining one of Ohio's safest counties to live, work and raise a family," Heldman said. "I thank everyone who has supported my efforts as sheriff during the past seven terms." Born and raised in rural Arlington and a county native, Heldman attended Owens Technical College in 1971 for law enforcement and began his career at the Hancock County Sheriff's Office in February 1972 as a deputy. In 1981, he was promoted to shift sergeant, started the crime prevention unit and developed a successful countywide block watch program. In 1984, he became a lieutenant and oversaw the civil and corrections areas. And, in 1986, he started the Crime Stopper program, in cooperation with the Findlay-Hancock County Chamber of Commerce. Over the years, he's assisted and instructed various trainings and has held a range of crime prevention positions across the state, including being chairman of several committees, a board member, treasurer, executive secretary, third vice president, second vice president and president of the Buckeye State Sheriff's Association Board. As he approaches a 52nd year in law enforcement, he's also achieved a variety of awards and accomplishments, including Law Enforcement Officer of the Year, a certification of appreciation from the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Michael Blankenship Memorial Service Award, the President Award from the Crime Prevention Association of Findlay-Hancock County and the Distinguished Law Enforcement Award from the Findlay-Hancock County Litter Board. He's attributed, established or founded several programs such as Welcome to a New Life, the Everbridge Project, the Boot project for area schools, a chaplain program in the sheriff's office, the Citizens Sheriff's Academy and TRIAD, a program for adults and law enforcement to address and educate older citizens about crime issues affecting them. Heldman will continue serving Hancock County through the end of his term, which will end in January 2025, he said.