TIONESTA: Forest County Sheriff William Carbaugh has officially announced his candidacy for re-election, reflecting on his accomplishments during his first term and his ongoing dedication to serving the community.

A 1998 graduate of the Indiana University Police Academy, Carbaugh has been an integral part of the Forest County law enforcement landscape since 2006. He was first elected as Sheriff in 2022 and has since focused on improving efficiency and fostering greater community involvement within his office.

"In my first term, I maintained and stayed under budget," Carbaugh said, emphasizing his ability to manage resources responsibly.

As a Republican, Carbaugh pointed to key improvements such as simplifying the process for residents to obtain license-to-carry permits, enabling individuals to receive their permits on the same day they apply.

He also underscored his office's active role in local programs and initiatives aimed at strengthening ties with the community.

"We continue our community presence and work with various organizations, such as Youth Field Day and the Attorney General’s Office for drug take-backs," Carbaugh shared. "We also conduct random safety checks for the Forest Area School District and recently wrapped up the 12th year of our 'Shop with a Cop' program."

In addition to these programs, Carbaugh has placed a strong emphasis on educational outreach to ensure that the community remains informed and prepared.

“We have provided classes to educate the community on drug issues, scams, and identity theft,” Carbaugh said, noting the importance of these efforts in addressing modern challenges. He further expressed his appreciation for the dedicated staff at his office, who work tirelessly to support Forest County residents.

Carbaugh also reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining solid relationships with other county departments and ensuring the protection of constitutional rights, particularly the Second Amendment.

“I have been honored to serve as your Sheriff during my first term. With your support in May and November, I can continue to work hard to keep Forest County safe and be committed to serving the people,” Carbaugh concluded.

The primary election is scheduled for May 2025, and Carbaugh is eager to continue his service with the backing of the community.