Seminole County Chief Deputy Lemma elected to be Seminole’s next sheriff

The Supervisor of Elections announced Friday that Seminole County Sheriff candidate Dennis Lemma has won the race after being unopposed.
Lemma announced his candidacy immediately following current Sheriff Don Eslinger’s announcement to retire in August. Eslinger is the longest serving sheriff in the county’s history and served 26 years as sheriff with 38 years in the sheriff’s office.
During Eslinger’s announcement in August he also endorsed Chief Deputy Lemma for the position.
“He’s more prepared to be sheriff than I was 25 years ago,” said Eslinger. “Dennis will build on the foundation and values of this organization.”
Lemma will take office Jan. 3, 2017, at which point both Eslinger and Undersheriff Steve Harriett will both retire. Lemma will be the county’s 10th sheriff.
“I am honored and humbled to have the opportunity to serve as Sheriff,” said Lemma.  “I am incredibly grateful for the confidence of the community, and for the support of so many residents and volunteers who assisted with my campaign.  Sheriff Eslinger and I will continue to work closely together over the next six months to ensure a seamless transition.  My commitment is to continue to provide exceptional law enforcement services; Seminole County residents both expect and deserve it.”
Lemma, 44, is a 24-year law enforcement veteran who currently serves as Chief Deputy of the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office. He served with the United States Marine Corps Reserves for eight years. He holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice administration from Columbia College, a master’s degree in administrative leadership from the University of Oklahoma, and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy. Lemma and his wife, Diana, also a law enforcement officer, have two boys and have resided in Seminole County for more than 20 years.

- Rachel Delinski, Herald Publisher/Editor, RDelinski@MySanfordHerald.com