Alpena County Sheriff Steven Kieliszewski to Retire in May
After 17 years in the position, Alpena County Sheriff Steven Kieliszewski announced his retirement on Monday. He spent 35 years in law enforcement and the last 34 with the sheriff’s office.
Kieliszewski said it came down to wanting to spend more time with his family as he was lost a lot of memories with them. “There are times when you miss a lot with your family,” he said. “I don’t want to miss those opportunities with my grandkids. So hopefully I’ll be able to share and make up for some of the losses I’ve had raising my own kids.”
Kieliszewski is endorsing his Undersheriff, Erik Smith to take over the rest of the term, but ultimately the decision will be made by a selection committee. “This is my home,” said Smith. “This is where I’ve chosen to raise my kids. This is where my wife and I have settled down. This is my home so it was a quick decision that I want to do the best for my community. I’m part of Alpena.”
“He’s well qualified and certainly has support and my endorsement,” said Kieliszewski. “I’ll be talking with the selection committee and advocating for his role as potentially the new sheriff here in Alpena.”
Sheriff Kieliszewski’s last day will be on May 20. The selection committee to decide his replacement is made up of the senior judge of the probate court, county clerk and prosecuting attorney.
