Longtime Pima County Sheriff Clarence Dupnik said today he plans to end his term before the end of the year.
Dupnik, who turned 79 years old this month, has served as Pima County's sheriff since 1980.
Dupnik, a Democrat, has won re-election easily in several elections over his term, but his most recent race against Republican Mark Napier was one of his toughest challenges.
Dupnik said Friday he didn't want to be one of those politicians who stay in office well beyond when they should be "put to pasture."
He made the surprise announcement on the Bill Buckmaster radio show today.
Dupnik said he wants the Pima County Board of Supervisors to appoint Chief Deputy Chris Nanos as his successor. Nanos, 59, was named deputy sheriff last year.
People are also reading…
Dupnik has more than 50 years experience in law enforcement. Later today Dupnik's office confirmed he will retire Jan. 1, 2016.
His department has more than 1,500 employees and a budget of about $120 million.
The sheriff's department put out a news release later Friday:
"The Pima County Sheriff’s Department confirms reports of an announcement made by Sheriff Clarence W. Dupnik in a radio interview today. Sheriff Dupnik will retire by January 1, 2016. The sheriff stated that he supports Chief Deputy Chris Nanos as his successor. There will be no press conference or further announcements at this time."
Clarence
Dupnik
