(La Porte County, IN) - Republican Ron Heeg will become the next sheriff in La Porte County after beating Democrat Andy Hynek last night by nearly 2,500 votes.

 

For nearly eight-years, Heeg has been second in command as chief deputy under current sheriff John Boyd.  Boyd was not eligible to run again under a state law restricting a sheriff to two terms.

 

Currently, Hynek is a supervisor in the patrol division.

 

Heeg said his victory left him speechless and commended Hynek for running what he called a “professional campaign.”  He said they’ve known each other since before they joined the sheriff’s office more than 20-years ago and they agree before the campaign to keep things clean.

 

Heeg also said he expects both of them to get along as they always have once he takes over as sheriff in January.

 

“Andy and I work together and we’re going to continue to work together with one goal in mind, to protect the citizens of La Porte County and to keep them safe.  I think that’s why we kept our race so clean, just because of that,” he said.

 

Hynek briefly touched upon their relationship while responding in defeat to his supporters last night.  “I just spoke to Ron Heeg and told him I’m excited to work with him and for him.  He’ll always be a brother to me,” he said.