Kandy Fatheree assumed office as Summit Country Sheriff in January 2021, becoming the first female Sheriff in the county’s history and one of only three in Ohio. As Sheriff of the fourth largest county in the state, she oversees nearly 400 deputies and civilian employees. Growing up in Springfield Township, Ohio, Sheriff Fatheree aspired to work in law enforcement since she was six years old.

As a single mother, she attended the Police and Corrections Academy, beginning her career as Lakemore Police Department’s first female officer. She joined the Summit County Sheriff’s Office in 1995, eventually rising to the rank of Captain and graduating from the FBI’s National Academy for Executive Leadership. Elected Sheriff in November 2020, Fatheree has focused on reform and rejuvenation within the Summit County Sheriff’s Office. Her priorities when re-elected will continue to include enhancing professionalism, increasing diversity, equity and inclusion, and addressing the mental health of both her employees and those in custody.