Caucus Selects New Lake County Sheriff
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowDemocrats in Lake County have selected a new sheriff. Oscar Martinez succeeds John Buncich, who was removed from office after being found guilty last month on wire fraud and bribery charges.
Our partners at The Times of Northwest Indiana report the Democratic caucus selected Martinez over eight other candidates. Martinez received 223 votes, ahead of Schererville Police Chief David Dowling, who received 170 votes.
Martinez, who has served as a Lake County sheriff’s officer since 1993, will finish Buncich’s uncompleted term. He tells The Times his first job is to raise morale following the Buncich scandal.
"That will be done by my leading by example. I intend to do that. I look forward to taking over the department and working with the community," said Martinez. "
Martinez, who unsuccessfully ran for sheriff in 2010 and 2014, says he will be a candidate for the position in 2018 seeking a full four-year term.
You can read more about the Democratic caucus and view the swearing-in ceremony for Martinez from our partners at The Times of Northwest Indiana by clicking here.