GAINESVILLE, FL (352today.com) – Former Florida Senator and Alachua County Sheriff Steve Oelrich died Monday night, according to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office.
Oelrich served in the Florida Senate from 2006-2012 representing Senate District 14 consisting of Alachua, Bradford, Gilchrist, and Union Counties, plus parts of Columbia, Levy, Marion, and Putnam Counties.
Oelrich also served on several Senate Committees including the Chair of the Higher Education Committee, and the Vice Chair of the Military Affairs and Domestic Security Committee.
Oelrich was elected Sheriff of Alachua County in 1992.
Oelrich’s 14-year term at the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office was filled with many accomplishments including upgrading computer systems, instituting a career development program for deputy sheriffs and agency employees, starting the agency’s website, and expanding the department’s K-9 unit.
In addition, Oelrich implemented a new county jail and a new administration building while Sheriff of Alachua County.
He held the position until joining the Florida State Senate in 2006.
Many people, including Alachua County Sheriff Emery Gainey, have expressed their heartfelt condolences for Oelrich on social media.
“Our deepest condolences to the Oelrich family as we remember a great leader who served Alachua County and our state with honor and dedication,” wrote Sheriff Gainey. “May his memory continue to inspire us all to serve with the same commitment to justice and community.”
Oelrich’s cause of death is currently unknown.