Crime & Safety
Wayne County, IN Sheriff Steps Down After Winning State House Seat
Richmond, IN – Wayne County has undergone an immediate change in law enforcement leadership after Sheriff Randy Retter won election to the Indiana House of Representatives, prompting his departure fro
By Owen Prescott · 2026-11-04T20:30:04.646Z
Richmond, IN – Wayne County has undergone an immediate change in law enforcement leadership after Sheriff Randy Retter won election to the Indiana House of Representatives, prompting his departure from the Sheriff's Office and the swearing in of Chief Deputy Alan Moore.
According to the Wayne County Sheriff's Office, Retter was elected to the Indiana House during Tuesday's general election, Nov. 3, 2026.
Because Indiana law prohibits individuals from simultaneously holding two lucrative public offices, Retter stepped down as sheriff at midnight following the election.
Chief Deputy Alan Moore Assumes Sheriff's Duties
The Sheriff's Office confirmed Wednesday, Nov. 4, that Chief Deputy Alan Moore had been sworn in to assume the responsibilities of sheriff.
Under Indiana's statutory process, the chief deputy takes over the duties of the office when a sheriff's vacancy occurs until a successor is selected.
Moore's assumption of those responsibilities became effective Wednesday.
The department did not announce when a permanent successor would be selected or provide additional details about the upcoming selection process.
Retter Begins Transition to State Government
Retter's election marks a transition from county law enforcement leadership to state level public service.
The Sheriff's Office said Retter was at the Indiana Statehouse earlier Wednesday following his election victory.
In its official statement, the department congratulated Retter and expressed appreciation for his leadership and service to Wayne County.
Officials also said they looked forward to his continued contributions to the community.
Leadership Transition Follows Indiana Law
The change comes just one day after voters participated in the November general election.
While Moore has assumed the sheriff's responsibilities, the department's announcement makes clear that the statutory process for selecting a successor remains relevant.
The Sheriff's Office did not report any interruption to law enforcement operations resulting from the transition.
Residents throughout Wayne County will now see Moore overseeing the office's duties as the succession process moves forward.