Sheriff leaves to take on new state position

Madison County Sheriff Allen Riley is vacating his post to serve as the NYS Corrections Comissioner.

WAMPSVILLE, N.Y. » A new sheriff will be in town this November.

Former Madison County Sheriff Allen Riley’s name will not appear on the November 2017 ballot following his appointment to serve as the New York State Corrections Commissioner.

Riley, a Democrat, has resigned from his post to accept the appointment following seven years of service as sheriff.

In his absence, Undersheriff John Ball will take over the day-to-day duties until the post is filled, officials say.

Riley beat out Canastota Police Chief Jim Zophy in a special election in 2009 for the county’s top law enforcement position. The four-year term was up for grabs after the September 2009 retirement of Ronald Cary.

Riley retired after 27 years with the New York State police to run for sheriff in 2009.

DISPATCH FILE PHOTO Madison County Sheriff Allen Riley will be leaving his post to serve as the New York State Corrections Commissioner.