Fayette Chief of Police Jeff Oswald announced Monday his intention to run for Howard County Sheriff. Oswald is a 19-year veteran with the Fayette Police Department and has for the last nine years served as Police Chief. He is a certified law enforcement instructor.

“I truly believe that my demonstrated professional abilities and commitment to the community will allow me to lead the Howard County Sheriff’s Department in a positive direction,” Oswald said in a press release.

Oswald in an interview Monday said he intends the Sheriff’s Department to take a more proactive approach to policing if elected Sheriff.

Jeff and his wife, Sonya, live in Fayette with their children Shane, Ella, Cooper, and Sophie. A native Blackwater, Mo., he was graduated from Boonville High School before earning a degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Psychology from Lindenwood University in St. Louis. 

Oswald said he will run as a Republican. A primary election is scheduled for August with the general election slated for November. So far there is only one other Republican candidate for Sheriff. New Franklin Police Chief Mike Wise announced in January 2019 his intent to run for Howard County Sheriff. An attempt to reach Wise Monday evening was unsuccessful.

Current Sheriff Mike Neal said on Monday that he will seek re-election. Neal is currently in his second term as Sheriff. He will run as an Independent.