San Diego Sheriff Bill Gore Announces Early Retirement

San Diego County Sheriff Bill Gore is hanging up his badge after 51 years in law enforcement. Gore announced his retirement, effective Feb. 3 — one year before his term is set to expire.

Gore was appointed sheriff by the Board of Supervisors in 2009 following the retirement of Bill Kolender. He was elected in 2010 and re-elected in 2014 and 2018. For the previous 33 years, Gore worked for the FBI.

Gore has faced criticism over a high number of inmate deaths at county jails. A recent public service video demonstrating lethality of Fentanyl was deemed a hoax by experts, causing enormous embarrassment for the department. Gore had already said he would not seek re-election, but last week’s announcement will accelerate his exit from office.

Board of Supervisors Chair Nathan Fletcher will hold a special meeting in March to appoint an interim replacement for Gore, according to KPBS.

Image Credit: San Diego County Sheriff's Dept.