Delaware County Sheriff Martin to retire in April

Three-term sheriff Russell Martin announced Monday that he will be retiring after 43 years in law enforcement. Martin’s last day will be April 17.

In a prepared statement, he recounted his accomplishments and pride in holding the job as the growing county’s top enforcement officer.

Martin, 65, was appointed sheriff in June 2012, was elected later that year and served for nearly 11 years. He was re-elected in 2016 and 2020. Known for being honest and holding his staff to high standards, Martin helped restore trust in the office.

In 2007, then-sheriff Al Myers resigned after pleading guilty to misdemeanor ethics violations.

The man appointed to succeed him, Walter L. Davis III, abruptly resigned in 2012 amid an investigation into misuse of county funds.

Prior to being sheriff, Martin worked through the ranks of the city of Delaware

Police Department, eventually becoming chief, a post he held for eight years.

Martin called his service a “calling, a passion, and a sacrifice,” especially for his family. He is married and has two grown children.

Other county officials praised Martin’s leadership and character.

Jeff Benton, president of the Delaware County Board of Commissioners, said Martin led with “integrity, commitment and compassion.”

The commissioners will appoint an acting sheriff following his departure. Per the Ohio Revised Code they will have 45 days to appoint a successor to fill out his term, which ends Dec. 31, 2024.

While he did not elaborate on his future, Martin did indicate that he’ll remain active and is not ready to retire to a beach or retirement community.

“I draw energy from the courses I teach on ethics and law enforcement. I feel my soul lighten when I mentor men at my local church and through a national organization of Christian law enforcement leaders. And I see hope for the future as I serve as a member of the board of trustees at my beloved alma mater, Bowling Green State University.”

Among his accomplishments, he created the county’s first-ever cold case unit, which has led to several decadesold cases being solved; enhanced the school resource officer program; implemented body cameras and co-chaired a campaign to create the county’s first domestic violence shelter.

Martin was treated successfully for prostate cancer a few years ago, which partially factored into his decision, he wrote.

“While I’m relieved and grateful that the diagnosis of, and successful treatment for, cancer a few years ago has left me healthy and energetic, that experience was just another reminder that the family I love deserves more of my attention and time.”

Tracy Whited, sheriff ’s office spokeswoman, said Martin made her job easier “by always telling the truth and being transparent.” dnarciso@dispatch.com @Deannarciso