Oklahoma County Sheriff John Whetsel is leaving after 20 years in office and shortly after starting his sixth term. Whetsel's retirement takes effect February 28.
Oklahoma County Sheriff John Whetsel's resignation letter. @kfor pic.twitter.com/xcAM4VvV5y
— Sheldra Brigham (@SheldraBrigham) February 1, 2017
Whetsel's retirement comes on the heels of a state auditor's report conducted at the request of Oklahoma County District Attorney David Prater.
According to the audit, all of the funds weren't "expended in a lawful manner." It also took issue with Whetsel's office not paying medical bills for the Oklahoma County Jail for several months in 2015.
In November, the Democratic Sheriff narrowly defeated his Republican challenger, former State Representative Mike Christian, winning by just 9,974 votes.
A special election will have to take place to elect Whetsel's successor. Two former candidates for Oklahoma County Sheriff—Christian and Darrell Sorrells—have told news outlets that they plan on running.
#BREAKING Rep. Mike Christian will run in special election for Oklahoma County Sheriff. Christian lost to Whetsel in November. @NEWS9
— Nhan And Wife Videography (@NhanAndWife) February 1, 2017
Just confirmed that Darrell Sorrells, who lost to Whetsel in Sheriff's race in 2012 will be candidate in any special election.
— Phil Cross (@philsnews) February 1, 2017
Commissioner Brian Maughan says it could cost the county $300,000 to hold special election to replace Sheriff Whetsel.
— Phil Cross (@philsnews) February 1, 2017
