CANTON, Ohio – The sheriff-elect in Stark County is not going take office in 2013 due concerns about his health.
According to Sheriff Timothy Swanson, Chief Deputy Mike McDonald’s physician recommended that he not assume the office of sheriff, due to “extenuating circumstances” concerning his health.
Swanson said McDonald will be seeking additional medical care for his condition.
McDonald, a Democrat, defeated challenger Republican Lawrence Dordea by a 4-percent margin (52% to 48%) in the November general election.
Ohio law calls for Stark County Commissioners to now appoint an interim sheriff until the Democratic party can hold an election in the next 5 to 45 days.
“These are very unfortunate circumstances and Sheriff Elect Chief Deputy Mike McDonald’s family requests privacy during this difficult time and only asks for your prayers,” said Swanson.
McDonald started full-time as a deputy in 1981.
LOCAL: Stark County Sheriff-Elect Steps Down Due to Health Problems was originally published on wzakcleveland.com
