Erie resident Chris Campanelli, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and 25-year member of the Erie County Sheriff s Office, is running for Erie County sheriff.
Campanelli, who turned 52 on Wednesday, has served with the sheriff s office since 1996, including the past four years as captain of the sheriff s office. In his present role, Campanelli is third in command, overseeing daily office operations.
Campanelli, a Democrat, officially announced his candidacy on Wednesday during a news conference at the Erie County Courthouse. I will be committed to improving relations with our diverse community, to promoting fairness and justice, and continuing collaboration with the Erie community, its individuals and local leaders, Campanelli said.
Erie County Sheriff John Loomis is about to wrap up a career in county government that has lasted more than 40 years.
Loomis, 61, announced on Friday that he plans to retire once his current term as sheriff runs out at the end of the year. My plan was to do two terms, said Loomis, who was first elected as sheriff in 2013. It s time to hand the reins over to new blood.
Loomis, who lives in Millcreek Township, joined the Erie County Sheriff s Office in 1992 after 12 years with the Erie County Department of Corrections. He has served the office as a deputy, lieutenant and captain before he was first elected to the top job, replacing Sheriff Bob Merski, who retired.