HUTCHINSON, Kan. — In an email to staff and others, Reno County Sheriff Randy Henderson announced Wednesday his plans to retire on Dec. 27.

“After over 43 years in law enforcement, I feel it is time for me to give more time to my family,” Sheriff Henderson wrote. “I have had a blessed career, being mentored by some outstanding officers. I have been fortunate to have the greatest staff around me, that have supported me and made my life and job pretty easy.”

He also talked about his blood family that has stood behind him and supported him in good times and bad. “It is now time for me to give back to them,” Henderson said. “My 98-year-old mother needs more of my time, I have much work to do around our house, make momma happy, and I never want to miss my grandkids sporting or school events again.” He says that makes him happy.

He says he shouldn’t need to work, but no doubt will work part time or volunteer in the near future. He says he will continue being part of the Drug Task Force and wants to see it through to get a detox and treatment facility in Hutchinson.