Maries County Sheriff announces he will not pursue reelection after term expires

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Maries County Sheriff Chris Heitman announced Tuesday morning he will not pursue reelection after his term expires on Jan. 1, 2025.

Sheriff Heitman has served as an elected law enforcement officer since 2005 and was elected as the Maries County Sheriff in 2008.

In a media release, Sheriff Heitman says toward the end of his term, he made plans to change career paths but didn't want to end his career until he had another person able to take his position. "I am now confident I have that person," Sheriff Heitman wrote in a media release.

That person Heitman is referencing is Maries County's Chief Deputy Scott John. Sheriff Heitman says he has Chief Deputy John handling the majority of the administrative duties of the office and overseeing the day-to-day operations. Despite Chief Deputy John not announcing his plan to run yet, Sheriff Heitman said, "Scott does plan to run for my position and I would be proud to turn it over to him."

Chief Deputy John began working in the office as a volunteer chaplain over a decade ago. The media release said he has served in almost every position in its office and has overseen the application and receipt of grants during his time in office.

Sheriff Heitman says once his term ends, he plans to continue in law enforcement and assist several agencies with criminal investigations. He says he also plans to spend some time on his scuba business in Jefferson City.

He went on to say that he appreciates all the support and trust the community has given him throughout his career.