The upcoming Lake County Sheriff election in 2026 has drawn significant attention, as four Democratic candidates have announced their intention to vie for the position. This open seat became available due to current Sheriff Oscar Martinez Jr.’s ineligibility for a third consecutive term. Among the contenders is Jason Gore, a 52-year-old retired federal agent from the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF). With mandatory retirement at 57 for ATF special agents, Gore saw the Lake County Sheriff role as an ideal opportunity to leverage his extensive career experience without relocating from the Chicagoland area.
Gore’s law enforcement journey began in 1998 as a Merrillville Police officer, where he quickly advanced to detective and collaborated with the Drug Enforcement Administration on drug trafficking cases. In 2004, he joined the ATF and was pivotal in establishing a violent crimes task force in South Bend before moving to the Merrillville office. Rising through the ranks, Gore became deputy commander of the Northwest Indiana Major Crimes Task Force in 2014, later serving as resident agent in charge of the ATF Merrillville office and then assistant special agent in charge of the ATF Chicago field division. Gore aims to introduce leadership, partnership, intelligence, technology, crime reduction strategies, accountability, and transparency if elected as sheriff.
Edward Jenkins, Lake County Sheriff’s Department Deputy Police Chief, has also announced his candidacy. With nearly 30 years of dedicated service within the department, Jenkins aspires to elevate the sheriff’s office to new heights. His career began in 1997 as a correctional officer, and he later transitioned to a police officer role in 1999. By 2003, Jenkins had become a detective, handling complex cases across Lake County. His expertise expanded as the main supervisor for the Lake County metro homicide unit and finally, as deputy chief, where he gained valuable administrative skills. Jenkins seeks to enhance technology for officers, improve safety within the jail, and tackle fentanyl distribution.
Steven Flores, St. John Police Chief, joined the race in January 2024. With deep-rooted ties to law enforcement through his family, Flores has served the St. John Police Department since 2004, advancing from patrol officer to the K-9 unit and then to detective bureau commander. Appointed as police chief in 2020, he has been instrumental in lobbying for new police infrastructure and mental health services funding. Flores prioritizes officer training, particularly in crisis intervention, and emphasizes community engagement and maintaining safety achievements in Lake County.
Indiana State Police Major Jerry Williams is another candidate in the race, bringing 31 years of experience to the table. His career includes roles as a corrections officer and road trooper, alongside serving on a gang task force. As lieutenant of the Indiana State Police Lowell District, he managed both urban and rural areas, and he currently serves on the police executive staff. Williams is eager to apply his crime-fighting passion and extensive logistical experience to the sheriff’s department, promising a seamless transition due to his comprehensive understanding of law enforcement dynamics.
The Human Element Explored
The Lake County Sheriff election presents potential shifts in local law enforcement dynamics, impacting residents, businesses, and community safety. Each candidate brings a unique perspective shaped by diverse backgrounds and experiences, which could influence policy and operational changes within the sheriff’s department. For residents and businesses in Lake County, these changes might affect community policing strategies, safety protocols, and the overall relationship between law enforcement and the public.
The election’s outcome could also determine how law enforcement addresses critical issues such as drug trafficking, mental health interventions, and technological advancements in policing. This, in turn, may influence public confidence in law enforcement, potentially affecting community cooperation and engagement. Stakeholders across Lake County will be keenly observing how each candidate’s proposed policies align with public safety priorities and the broader goal of fostering a secure and harmonious community.