Union County Seeks New Jail Warden after Longtime Sheriff Retires

Union County officials began a formal search on December 9, 2025 for a replacement to lead the county jail following the retirement announcement by current warden Ernie Ritter. Ritter, who served four terms as elected sheriff and who was appointed county warden in 2022, informed county commissioners that he would not seek another term as sheriff and recently confirmed his intention to step down as warden.

County leaders say the search process is now underway. Commissioners will oversee recruitment and selection for the post that directs daily operations at the county jail. The office carries responsibility for custody and care of inmates, staffing and training of corrections personnel, coordination with county courts and law enforcement agencies, oversight of medical and mental health services in custody, and compliance with state regulations and accreditation standards.

Ritter’s long tenure in local law enforcement means the transition will test institutional continuity at a time when staffing pressures and operational demands are common in county jails across the region. Staffing shortages, rising costs for inmate medical care and contracted services, and evolving standards for detainee treatment all fall within the remit of the next warden. Residents will see the practical effects of the leadership change in how the jail manages court transports, adheres to safety protocols, and implements rehabilitation and reentry programs.

There are also political implications. Ritter’s decision not to run again removes an established figure from the sheriff electoral field and may reshape campaign dynamics in the next county election cycle. The combination of an open sheriff seat and a vacancy in jail leadership creates an opening for new candidates and for public debate over corrections policy, county budgeting, and community safety priorities.

For Union County taxpayers and community advocates, the transition highlights the need for transparency and clear accountability in the hiring process. Commissioners control the selection timeline and criteria, and their choices will affect operations and oversight for years to come. The county has signaled the search is active, and residents interested in corrections policy and public safety should monitor commissioner meetings for updates and opportunities to engage.