Wolfinger to run for sheriff in 2016

Ben Wolfinger announced Tuesday that he’ll seek a second term as Kootenai County sheriff.

Wolfinger, 54, has been with the sheriff’s office since 1983. He was elected to his first term as sheriff in 2012.

“During the past 35 months since taking office, we have seen several positive changes in the Sheriff’s Office,” he said. “This includes the establishment of a Crime Prevention program, increased collaboration with the Board of County Commissioners, private and public entities and regional law enforcement agencies, as well as contracting jail food services, which allowed the Board of Commissioners to cut the budget $250,000 the first year.”

Wolfinger said service to the public is his top priority.

“I am proud of the men and women of the Sheriff’s Office,” he said. “Together, we continue to improve the level of service that we provide to the residents and visitors to Kootenai County. I am honored to be the sheriff of Kootenai County and I look forward to continuing to serve the public for another four years.”

The primary election is next May 17, with the general election on Nov. 8, 2016.