In the race for Webster County sheriff Republican incumbent Luke Fleener faces a challenge from one of his deputies, Trevir Michehl, who is running as a Libertarian.

Michhel lost to Fleener in the Republican primary last spring, but re-entered the race as the Libertarian nominee. The sheriff’s race is the only local one in which the Libertarian Party fielded a candidate.

Here is an introduction to the candidates.

Luke Fleener

He has been the Webster County sheriff since 2021. He has served with the Sheriff’s Office for 30 years. He began his career as a Dayton police officer in 1990. He became a Fort Dodge police officer later that year. He served as a deputy sheriff in Hamilton County from 1993 to 1995. He joined the Webster County Sheriff’s Office in 1995.

He is the commander of a regional tactical unit that handles high risk arrest and search warrants. Also, he is a certified instructor who conducts active shooter response training across the country.

Fleener is a member of the board of directors of the Iowa State Sheriffs and Deputies Association. He is also a member of the Iowa Narcotics Officers Association, the Iowa law Enforcement Intelligence Network and the Community & Family Resources Opioid Task Force.,

He is a graduate of Dayton High School. He earned an associate degree in criminal justice from Iowa Central Community College.

What would be your top priority if you are elected?

“When re-elected Webster County sheriff, we will continue to strive for excellence in all areas of law enforcement, that is our mission statement. It has always been a top priority of mine to provide the citizens of Webster County the best service possible when we are called upon. That is only possible by continuing to provide all of our employees; sworn personnel, correctional officers and dispatchers, with the best training opportunities and the best equipment to do the job they have been hired to do, serve our citizens.

“In addition, we have worked tirelessly to create a leadership driven environment within our department to develop and create the future leaders of our department. It is extremely important that the citizens of Webster County know that we have a plan and the dedicated staff to serve them for years to come.”

Trevir Michehl

Michehl started his law enforcement career in 20023 as a volunteer in the Webster County Reserves. He became a Webster County jailer in 2004.

He subsequently became a reserve police officer in Gowrie, Positions with the Webster City and Okoboji police departments followed. In 2017, he became a deputy sheriff in Webster County.

What would be your top priority if you are elected?

“The utmost priority is to ensure the safety and security of the community. This entails the implementation of highly effective crime prevention strategies, close collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, and the promotion of community engagement to establish trust and cooperation.

“Simultaneously, building a positive relationship between law enforcement and the community is crucial. This can be achieved through open communication, transparency, and the implementation of community-oriented policing initiatives. By actively engaging with community leaders, organizations, and residents, a strong sense of partnership and mutual trust can be fostered.

“These are just a few examples of top priorities, and the specific focus areas may vary depending on the needs and challenges of the community.”