TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) -- Longtime Leon County Sheriff Larry Campbell has passed away at the age of 72.
Sheriff Campbell was first diagnosed with lung cancer in 2007 and again in 2013. A recent scan showed the cancer had come back.
Sheriff Campbell first starting working at the Leon County Sheriff's Office in 1961, while he was still a student at Florida State University. He was elected sheriff in 1996.
Florida Governor Rick School has appointed Major Robert Swearingen as sheriff on an interim basis. Following protocol, the Leon County Sheriff's Office Chain of Command remains in place and all public safety services continue.
Leaders throughout the state sending their condolences to Sheriff Campbell's family.
Governor Rick Scott: "Ann and I send our condolences to Sheriff Campbell's family and the entire Leon County Sheriff's Office over the loss of one of our state's most devoted law enforcement heroes. As a former United States Marine, with more than 50 years of law enforcement experience, Sheriff Campbell truly dedicated his life to protecting and serving Florida families. He was also deeply passionate about encouraging his fellow law enforcement officers to join him in volunteering to better the Leon County community. We will miss Sheriff Campbell and will keep his family in our prayers during this difficult time."
Tallahassee Mayor Andrew Gillum: "Sheriff Campbell was a home-grown servant leader, serving and providing public safety to the citizens of the community and state he grew up in over five decades. I hope our community can celebrate and praise the great life and achievements of Sheriff Campbell and take continued purpose in the legacy he has left behind."
Tallahassee Police Chief Michael DeLeo: "Sheriff Larry Campbell spent the better part of his life serving his community and one of his strongest attributes was the passion he showed for the people he represented. He exemplified law enforcement in our community for more than four decades and in doing so set the tone for all who have dedicated their lives to serving the citizens of Leon County."
State Representative Alan Williams: "My thoughts and prayers go out to the Campbell family and the Leon County Sheriff Department. May you know how much we loved Sheriff Larry Campbell and appreciated his commitment to public service."
