Sheriff Larry Lynch to step down after current term

End of an era in private detention of county prisoners...

Waco – Sheriff Larry Lynch shocked fellow lawmen by saying after more than 30 years, he will pull the pin and hang up his spurs in 2012.

A three-term sheriff, Mr. Lynch joined the department and served 20 years in harness, rising to the rank of administrative lieutenant before seeking office in 2000. He has been elected to 3 terms by more than 60 percent of the vote.

At age 64, he also reportedly surprised officials of both parties by his announcement and a further comment that he expects to see Chief Deputy Randy Plemons announce his candidacy to replace him as Sheriff.

Deputy Plemons confirmed that he will be naming a campaign treasurer within days.

During his tenure as sheriff, Mr. Lynch made many crucial decisions over such controversial issues as the privatization of the downtown County Jail at the Courthouse Annex and the construction of the $50 million Jack Harwell Detention Center, both of which facilities are operated by CEC (Civigenics) Inc.

The downtown lockup is presently empty and facing a scheduled remodeling of its locking systems, smoke, and fire detectors. Prisoners were moved to the new detention center to help the private contractor meet its financial obligations.

McLennan County taxpayers are liable for the interest carry on the revenue bonds issued by the County Commissioners' Court to finance the project.