Effingham sheriff didn't disclose illness

SPRINGFIELD - Effingham County Sheriff Jay Space has revealed that he was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1996, but did not disclose the illness until last year. <br> <br> The 40-year-old Space, whose erratic behavior led to a 60-day suspension by Governor Barnes last month, was charged with five felony drug charges July 10. <br> <br> In a letter to Effingham County commissioners dated July 3, the sheriff offered to resign in exchange for a generous disability package. He also admitted to commissioners that he was diagnosed with MS six years ago. <br> <br> Commissioner Homer Lee Wallace said, ``When we received the letter saying he knew he had MS since 1996, it was shocking. We thought he just found out about it last year.&#39;&#39; <br> <br> Space revealed last spring that he had the degenerative disease that causes loss of muscle control. But he insisted he was well enough to finish his second term, which expires after 2004, and his neurologist wrote a letter saying he was capable of doing his job. <br> <br> But Space&#39;s condition got worse in 2001. <br> <br> In return for his resignation, Space sought a disability severance package that included a monthly stipend for 15 years and continuation of his medical insurance. <br> <br> Commissioners said Space turned down earlier disability offers during the previous six months.

http://accesswdun.com/article/2002/7/192108