Hillsborough County Sheriff, Chad Chronister, is running for election this November in the General Election. Chronister was appointed by Governor Rick Scott in September 2017 when Sheriff David Gee retired.
Chronister runs a department of 3,500 employees. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office protects over one million residents.
“I want to continue as Hillsborough County Sheriff because we are expected to experience exponential growth in this county. Estimates are that the county’s population will double in size by 2035. With this type of growth, we need someone who has the qualifications and experience that I have to continue to make public safety a top priority,” said Chronister.
Chronister has worked to improve the tools, resources and technologies that deputies have available to them to keep residents of the county safe. In addition, Chronister has worked to improve the hiring practices within the department. Specifically, Chronister has expanded recruitment and changed hiring standards. He has worked to be more inclusive in hiring and is committed to diversity in the department.
“My main goal is to have resources (personnel, tools and technology) to maintain standards given the growth in this county. This is key to reducing crime and keeping families safe,” said Chronister.
While Chronister is tough on crime, he has worked to develop an Adult Diversion Program for first time offenders of misdemeanor crimes such as drug offenses or shoplifting.
In addition to his official duties, Chronister voluntarily serves on two boards- The Boys and Girls Club and Metropolitan Ministries. Chronister said, “If we build strong children, then we will have a strong community,” said Chronister.
Chronister holds a Master’s Degree in Criminology from St. Leo University. He is married to Nicole and he has two sons. Chronister has been with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office for 26 years and was one of four Colonels prior to becoming Sheriff. Visit www.chadchronister.com.
