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(NewsDakota.com) Dickey County voters will start the process of electing a new sheriff for the first time in two decades come June of this year.

Jim Bohannon, who has been the county’s sheriff since taking office in 1994 is not seeking re-election according to a Dickey County Sheriff’s department spokeswoman.

Bohannon’s law enforcement career has spanned 32 years, and included surviving a special recall vote to remain sheriff in January 2008.  Bohannon received 72 percent of the county vote and defeated deputy sheriff Chris Estes, who was a write-in candidate. 92 percent of Bohannon’s total in that special election came from the Oakes precinct. Estes won the majority of the vote in Ellendale and Fullerton precincts. 

Dickey County Deputy Auditor Wanda Sheppard says those who wish to run for the the open seat in the primary election have until 4 p.m. on Monday, April 7 to turn in paperwork, which includes signatures. Should there be more than two people who run for the seat, the top two names who receive the highest votes will be on the November ballot to succeed Bohannon.

More information can be found by visiting dickeycountynd.com, or by calling 701-349-3249  ext. 111.