Lee County Sheriff Mike Scott announces retirement

After 30 years on the force, Lee County Sheriff, Mike Scott announces his retirement.

Sheriff Scott has been the Sheriff for the last 14 years. He was the 12th Sheriff, in the 131 year history of Lee County.

In a press release, Sheriff Scott stated family was the reason behind his decision to retire.

“I am near the midway point of my 4^th term at a time I would typically be announcing my intentions as to whether or not I would be seeking a 5^th term. Family obligations, that have now become priorities, prompted my decision to retire early,” said Scott.

Scott released the following letter:

To the Citizens of Lee County:

This letter is to inform you of my intention to retire as Lee County Sheriff effective September 24^th.  I have proudly served this community for thirty (30) years with the last fourteen (14) as your Sheriff. I have had the distinct honor of being elected four (4) times and being only the 12^th Sheriff to serve in the 131 year history of Lee County.

I am near the midway point of my 4^th term at a time I would typically be announcing my intentions as to whether or not I would be seeking a 5^th term. Family obligations, that have now become priorities, prompted my decision to retire early.

I have notified Governor Rick Scott of my decision and, as recently demonstrated in Pasco, Hillsborough and Pinellas counties, the Governor will appoint an interim Sheriff to serve until the next election.

My thirty (30) years with the LCSO has afforded me a myriad of challenges, amazing opportunities to meet a wide variety of people, and above all the privilege of working with a fantastic team of talented professionals. The last thirty (30) years of professional experiences flood my memory and, fortunately, the positive far outweigh the negative.  The successes achieved have been because of the talented group of men and women at the LCSO and, equally as important, the great citizens and business leaders who have worked in partnership with us.  With those partnerships, the crime rate has decreased year after year even though we have seen a substantial increase in the county’s population.

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office is one of the finest law enforcement agencies in the state and beyond. I am confident in the abilities of the leadership staff which is “laser focused” on the mission. I have great faith in Undersheriff Carmine Marceno and full trust that the team in place will continue to work hard day and night to keep Lee County a safe place to live, work and play.

It has been an honor and a privilege!

Mike

Watch the interview with Sheriff Scott below in its entirety: