The Maricopa County Board of Supervisors on Wednesday accepted the resignation of Sheriff Paul Penzone and is currently accepting letters of intent from those wishing to complete their terms.
According to the Board of Supervisors, Chief Deputy Sheriff Russ Skinner will continue to serve in his current role but will have the powers of sheriff until an appointment is made.
Penzone's final term ends Friday.
“I want to thank Sheriff Penzone for going above and beyond to keep Maricopa County residents safe,” said Board of Supervisors Chairman Jack Sellers. “We especially appreciate his cooperation on security issues related to the election.”
Because Penzone is a Democrat, state law requires regulators to appoint Democrats, even if the board is majority Republican.
Applicants must: Submit your cover letter and resume To the Secretary of the Board of Supervisors by 5:00 p.m. on January 19th
Applicants are subject to a background check and the documents they submit become public records.
State law requires sheriffs to do this. Live in the county you are in charge of and Prohibits sheriffs from practicing law.
The appointed candidate will serve until the person elected sheriff is sworn in in November 2024, according to county spokesperson Fields Moseley.
So far, three Republicans have announced their intention to run for Maricopa County Sheriff: Frank Crawford, Jerry Sheridan and Joel Ellis, and no Democrats have announced their intention to run for Maricopa County Sheriff. According to the county elections office.
Mr. Penzone announced his intention to resign in October, but his formal resignation was not sent until December.
“It was an honor”:Mr. Penzone announces resignation, begins process for replacement
Do you have any information about the Sheriff's Office? Contact reporters here: jjenkins@arizonarepublic.com or call 812-243-5582. Follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter. @JimmyJenkins.