Chad Spence sworn in as St. Joseph County Sheriff

Thursday marked a new chapter for St. Joseph County, Sheriff Chad Spence said in Sturgis.

Spence stood before a crowd of sheriff’s office employees, family, and other supporters at the Sturges-Young Center for the Arts. Together, he said, there will be a story of integrity, collaboration, and renewed hope.

“We cannot ignore the challenges that have brought us to this moment,” Spence said. “Recent events have tested the trust between the sheriff’s office and the people who serve.”

Spence’s nearly five-minute speech did not specifically name former Sheriff Mark Lillywhite. In April 2023, Lillywhite pleaded guilty to operating while intoxicated, and carrying a concealed weapon while under the influence. Lillywhite did not run for re-election. He also did not resign as sheriff, although there were comments as to whether Lillywhite was actually on the job prior to his term’s completion. Last September, County Board Chairman Ken Malone said Lillywhite has “been AWOL for a year-and-a-half.”

“To the deputies and employees of this office, to the residents of St. Joseph County, and to all those who depend on us for safety and justice, my commitment to you is simple and unwavering,” Spence said.

In August 2024, Spence won the Republican primary for St. Joseph County Sheriff. He faced no Democratic Party challengers in the November general election.

Spence said his office will rebuild trust. There will be dedication to ensuring “the highest standards of leadership, discipline, professionalism, and teamwork.”

“To the employees of the sheriff’s office, I know many of you have faced uncertainty, challenges in recent times. Let me assure you that your dedication has not gone unnoticed,” Spence said. “You are the backbone for this office, and together, we’ll create an environment where you are valued, supported, and proud to serve.”

Spence, a former career and technical education teacher, recognized all CTE students attending his ceremony. He presented Logan Markey with the certificate of completion and challenge coin that athletic commitments kept Markey from accepting in person in 2024. Spence also recognized Det. Sgt. Todd Petersen, who retired Thursday from the Michigan State Police, as well as other retirees and the families of law enforcement officers.

The ceremony concluded with an oath taken by St. Joseph County’s law enforcement, corrections officers, dive rescuers, and others.

“Do you commit to stand firm in your beliefs and values, refusing to compromise who you are and what you stand for, even when it’s difficult, ensuring your actions reflect integrity and honor?” Spence asked.

The new sheriff said a “culture of transparency, accountability, and respect” will be created both within the sheriff’s office walls and with every public interaction.

“To our citizens, I pledge to lead the sheriff’s office with integrity and compassion,” he says. “Law enforcement is not just about enforcing laws. It’s about building relationships. Together, we will build a partnership of trust and commitment to one another, which will ensure success in serving and protecting the citizens of this county. With God’s guidance, we can build a community that is safe, respected and heard.”

Frank Stanko is a staff writer for Watershed Voice.