1-7-2026
By Lauren Royce, Editor
MONTROSE — As of Monday, former county detective John Oliver is now the Susquehanna County Sheriff, succeeding former sheriff Lance Benedict who held the position for 24 years. With 30 years of experience in public safety, Oliver steps into the role ready to handle what comes next. Oliver ran unopposed in the November municipal election for the position. Hundreds of messages in thanks flooded social media at the news, with many thanking Benedict for his years of service and wishing Oliver the best of luck.
A retirement celebration event will be held for now former Sheriff Lance Benedict on Jan. 11 from 2 p.m.– 4:30 p.m. at 210 Public Way (Public Safety building) New Milford, PA.
Clerk of Courts and Prothonotary Jan Krupinski and now retired Susquehanna County Sheriff Lance Benedict at the swearing in ceremony on New Year’s Eve. Jan Krupinski Photo
Benedict’s years as Sheriff: January 2002 – January 2026
AWARDS:
2025 HONORARY GRAND MARSHAL – Montrose Area Kiwanis / Montrose PA July 4th
2025 JACK MASTERS AWARD – Susquehanna County Republican Committee
2018 C I T LEADERSHIP AWARD – NAMI PA
2018 DISTINGUISHED CITIZEN AWARD – Baden-Powell Council, Boy Scouts of America
2015 JOHN BALDI AWARD – Lackawanna / Susquehanna County Behavioral Health
2014 CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION – PA Game Commission
2013 CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION – Congressman Tom Marino
2013 DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD – Mountain View School District
2009 COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD – Susquehanna County Volunteer Fire Police Association
ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
– Initiated K9 Program with dog “Cash” (2007)
– Initiated Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) in Sheriff’s Office
– Initiated Drug Takeback program in courthouse and local communities gaining 5,000 pounds of unused drugs / medications turned in and off the streets
– Instrumental in yearly “National Night Out” with local police agencies
– Instrumental in Starting County DUI / Drug Task Force in 2007
– Supported and assigned Deputy for (Active Shooter) training to schools and businesses in the County
– Implemented “Amnesty week” for outstanding warrants in Susquehanna County to close cases
– Is the leader in showing unity with Law Enforcement Agencies local, state and Federal
Be the first to comment on "There’s a new sheriff in town"