Tioga County Sheriff Roger E. Besser announced last month that he will not seek re-election when his fourth term of office expires this year.
 Besser was elected Tioga County Sheriff in 1987, after he retired from the New York State Police. He took office in January 1988.

 "The past fifteen-plus years have been both challenging and rewarding," Besser said in a news release. "I count these years as the highlight of my law enforcement career."

 Among the highlights of terms in office, Besser cited the construction of the new Public Safety Building and Jail and the E-911 System.

 "I want to thank the citizens of Tioga County for having allowed me to serve them 
for these sixteen years. I would also like to thank the men and women of the Tioga County Sheriff's Office because, for the past sixteen years, it has been with the support of their efforts that all our accomplishments have been possible. A sheriff doesn't make the office of sheriff a success; it is the combined efforts of these dedicated men and women that make the sheriff and his office a success," said Besser.

 Besser is endorsing the candidacy of Senior Investigator Gary Howard for Tioga County Sheriff and Administrative Sergeant Michael Jackson as his choice for Undersheriff.

 Besser, who lives in Apalachin, is looking forward to spending more time with his wife, Linda, and enjoying new adventures.