Henderson County Sheriff Donald Seitz announces retirement

I, Sheriff Donald E. Seitz, would like to take this time to announce my retirement in the fall of 2022. I started working for the Henderson County Sheriffs Office over 30 years ago and have worked every job that this department offers.
In July 2020, I was appointed Sheriff and later ran for Sheriff that Fall and through the great efforts of my election team, I was honored to have been elected. Before then, I served as Chief Deputy under Sheriff Lumbeck and Sheriff Haynes. I started my career under the late Sheriff Thompson and I enjoyed my time in the Illinois State Drug Task Force and working as a road Deputy. I truly enjoyed working for all 3 of the past Sheriffs. I have also been blessed working with all of the other officers, deputies and troopers from neighboring departments, it’s been an honor.
I want to thank my wife,Diana, for always supporting my dreams and showing me unconditional love, you are my light. I also want to thank my son for running my social media account during the election, I pray for him as he continues his career as a Des Moines County Deputy. Both of my daughters have supported me and and have enjoyed watching them become the women they are and seeking out their dreams while raising my grandchildren.
This job has had some great moments and some moments I wish I could erase in my mind. I’ve witnessed things that most should not, and I’ve lived through it because of the support of family and friends. I started out with parents who believed that through hard work and dedication, you can impact other peoples lives in a positive way. I was lucky to have parents who inspired me.
I believe that it is my time to retire and spend time with my children and grandchildren and travel more with my wife. I also believe that I am leaving the department in the hands of the right person, Chief Deputy Matthew Link. Chief Deputy Link has informed me that he will be running for Sheriff in the 2022 election cycle and I fully endorse him. I believe he will do a tremendous job and continue the hard work and positive work environment that I have striven for over the past few years.
I am excited to see the growth of the department under Chief Deputy Link and will help him in the transition of power.
Finally, I want to thank the citizens of Henderson County for being there for me and making me feel like a family member. Your support of law enforcement and having our backs is what will keep our community safe.
Thank you and God Bless
Sheriff Donald E. Seitz