Kosciusko County Sheriff's Dept. Lt. Steve Knispel said he is seeking the county's sheriff seat to protect and serve the community.
Knispel, 52, (R-Warsaw) filed for the seat Friday, currently held by Kosciusko County Sheriff William "Rocky" Goshert, (R-Warsaw).
The primary is May 4 and the general election is Nov. 2."Having 30 years experience in law enforcement, my purpose in running for office is to bring to the people of our county a new era of professionalism," Knispel said. "It is important that the person elected to this position serve with dedication, determination and a clear understanding of management."
Knispel began his career with the Kosciusko County Sheriff's Dept. under Al Rovenstine, who Knispel served with for 16 years.
Knispel's first duties were patrol deputy, and he also worked in the jail and radio center.
As he gained experience, he was able to attend schooling provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Secret Service and U.S. Marshall's Office. He said the training allowed him to become more efficient in handling criminal cases.
He was promoted to detective sergeant working criminal cases; road lieutenant, supervising the patrol deputies; and detective lieutenant, supervising the department's detective division.
He served three years as director of the county work release center, housing non-felony inmates who paid for their housing, providing a savings to the taxpayers.
Rising through the ranks, he worked directly with the sheriff assisting in the duties of department administration. These duties included working with budgets, the courts, county prosecutor and other law enforcement agencies.
Knispel said it is a challenging time for the county, as drug and theft cases are on the rise.
"I feel we are doing a good job, but we can always do better," Knispel said. "As officers sworn to protect and serve, we owe it to the people of Kosciusko County."
Knispel's wife is Jan, and they have one daughter, Jessica.
