Sheriff Wiley releases statement on potential early retirement

Ascension Parish Sheriff Jeffrey F. Wiley released a letter last week which states that in the event of daughter Erin Wiley Lanoux's election to judge, the sheriff will opt for an early retirement.

"My wife Linda and I are very proud that our youngest daughter, Erin Wiley Lanoux, has also decided to dedicating herself to serving the public by recently qualifying to run for the November 6, 2018 election for the office of Ascension Parish Court judge," the letter states.

Furthermore, Sheriff Wiley assures the public that the Ascension Parish Sheriff's Office is in capable hands to continue its mission and goal of being the finest department in the State of Louisiana.

Wiley has served for over 40 years, and he has served as elected Sheriff for over 22 years.

"Based on what is now her official candidacy for this office," Wiley continues, "I formally announce that should she be successful in her pursuit for this important position, I will unequivocally opt for an early retirement and will leave the office of Sheriff prior to Erin being sworn into office in early January 2019."

Wiley admits the conflict of interest that would inevitably occur should he serve as sheriff and his daughter as judge simultaneously. It would undoubtedly lead to many recusal situations, placing a heavier burden on the other judges.

Of course, this is all hypothetical at this point, but in the event of Wiley Lanoux's election, this is what the sheriff has stated will occur. Lastly, Chief Deputy Bobby Webre would, by law, succeed Sheriff Wiley as interim sheriff until the next election date.

"Not only is this the right thing for the Court and the Office of Sheriff, my decision is made much easier due to the fact that the very capable Chief Deputy Robert "Bobby" Webre will . . . succeed me," states Wiley.