The long-time sheriff of Daviess County will hang up his holster before the end of this year.
Sheriff Keith Cain recently said he wouldn’t run for re-election in 2022, but announced on Thursday he will leave office on Dec. 1 before his current term ends.
Cain said his motivation for retiring was family.
"If this pandemic has taught me anything, it's that life is precious and time with those you love is fleeting," Cain said during a news conference. "After much thought and prayer, I've decided to leave office before my term expires and take the opportunity to spend more time with those that I've neglected far too long."
The former Marine has served 48 years in law enforcement and the past 24 years as sheriff of Daviess County.
Elected to six terms in office, Cain called leading the sheriff’s department an honor and privilege.
Judge-Executive Al Mattingly announced he has appointed Maj. Barry Smith to lead the department upon Cain’s retirement.
There will still be an election next year, but so far, Smith is the only candidate to announce he’s running for the office.
