Columbia County Sheriff Mike Loe has issued a statement saying will not seek reelection.
"I have decided not to seek reelection and will retire at the end of my term on December 31, 2022. I would like to take time to thank the citizens of Columbia County for entrusting me to serve you as your Sheriff since 2011," said Loe. "To my wife and family, thank you for supporting me through this journey."
Loe also thanked his deputies and staff for standing by him and working tirelessly for him and Columbia County.
"I want to thank Judge Denny Foster, members of the Quorum Court, the late Judge Larry Atkinson, Magnolia Police Department Chief Todd Dew, Magnolia Mayor Parnell Vann, Arkansas State Police and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission for excellent working relationships," he said. "I would also like to thank Representatives David Fielding and Lane Jean, and former State Senator Bruce Maloch for their support obtaining grants and other funding."
Loe said it's been his pleasure serving the citizens of Columbia County, but "I feel my time has come to an end. I am looking forward to retirement and spending time with my family, hunting, fishing, and traveling."
Loe was elected sheriff of Columbia County in 2010. He began his law enforcement career in 1972 as City Marshall in Taylor, while attending Southern Arkansas University.
In 1975, he joined the Arkansas State Police, serving 36 years before retiring to take office. He took office Jan. 1, 2011. Besides being the chief law enforcement officer for the county, the sheriff is responsible for overseeing the operation of the jail facility and sheriff's department.
Sheriff Loe's goal was to bring the latest technology and training for all officers, and provide a well-equipped vehicle fleet to better serve and protect the citizens of Columbia County. He utilized advanced technology and training to improve all aspects of the sheriff's office and jail facility.