CLEVELAND – White County Sheriff Neal Walden has made it official: he will not seek re-election next year.
Speaking with WRWH Radio Wednesday morning, Walden, who is in his 28th year as sheriff, said it’s time to do something else.
“They talk about the golden years,” Walden said. “I think it’s about time for me to take a little bite of the golden years. I’ve enjoyed my career. I’ve never got up a day in my life and said, ‘I don’t want to go to work’. It’s always been that challenge, you know, to go see what’s happening, who you can help.”
Walden began his law enforcement career in 1979, working for then-Sheriff Frank Baker Sr. Following Baker’s death, Walden ran for the office and has been serving ever since.
In his seventh term in office, Walden thanked the citizens for allowing him to serve over the years.
Walden said he and his staff have worked to modernize the sheriff’s office, going from a 14-member staff in 1991 to 80 personnel with four divisions of operation.
Walden said he wants to spend some time traveling, renewing his passion for photography, and wants to continue to serve the community in different volunteer opportunities.
