Strong will not seek reelection as sheriff

GEOFFREY WOEHLK/THE FORUM
Randy Strong Nodaway County Sheriff

MARYVILLE, Mo. — In an open letter to Nodaway County citizens released on Monday, Nodaway County Sheriff Randy Strong announced he will not seek reelection to the post in November.

“Some of you may recall that in 2016 when I campaigned for Sheriff, I said I intended to complete two terms as Sheriff if the citizens elected me,” Strong said in the letter. “I am grateful that I was elected and it has been my privilege to serve you. …

“I also promised to leave you a better Sheriff’s Office that would continue to serve you. I am confident that I have made good on that promise and I will leave you with the best trained, dedicated, and ethical deputies.”

In the letter, Strong thanked his colleagues at the sheriff’s office and touted new initiatives he began during his tenure. In particular, Strong highlighted the work the sheriff’s office has done alongside the North Star Advocacy Center.

“There have been numerous life-saving awards earned,” he said. “Complex investigations have been completed and presented for prosecution. Deputies not only support each other, but they also work to provide the best outcome for our citizens. We have partnered with the local victim’s advocacy center, and we are part of the Sexual Assault Review Team that utilizes ‘best practices’ to help our sexual assault survivors.”

Strong, who was first elected as sheriff in 2016 and reelected in 2020, used the end of his letter to endorse Capt. Austin Hann as his successor.

Filing for the Aug. 6 primary election does not open until Feb. 27, however several candidates are expected to file and make a crowded field to replace Strong.