4 days ago
Richmond police chief says he'll announce campaign for Wayne County sheriff on June 12
RICHMOND, IN — Richmond Police Chief Kyle Weatherly has announced he will run for Wayne County sheriff in the 2026 election to replace outgoing Sheriff Randy Retter.
Weatherly said in a Facebook announcement Tuesday night that he will formally announce his candidacy June 12 at 5:30 p.m. at Smiley's Pub & Beer Garden, 39 N. 8th St.
"For more than two decades, I've served Wayne County, not for recognition, but because this place is home," Weatherly said in his announcement. "And now … it's time for what's next."
Weatherly was named Richmond police chief by then-Mayor-elect Ron Oler on Nov. 16, 2023, after working with the Wayne County Sheriff's Department for 22 years.
At the time of his departure from the department, where he had spent his entire law enforcement career up to that point, Weatherly was the supervisor of detectives and of the investigations division.
"Come hear about my vision for Wayne County, ask questions and connect with those who care deeply about public safety and our community," he said about his upcoming campaign launch. "After all, we're not just running a campaign — we're building a team to serve you."
Retter is in his second term and is ineligible to run again, according to Indiana election laws.
Weatherly's campaign website and Facebook page do not indicate a party affiliation. A phone call requesting more information Wednesday was not immediately returned.
Evan Weaver is a news and sports reporter at The Palladium-Item. Contact him on X (@evan_weaver7) or email at eweaver@
This article originally appeared on Richmond Palladium-Item: Richmond Police Chief Weatherly announces bid for Wayne County sheriff
