Reidelberger first to announce in 2014 sheriff's race

Career law enforcement officer Gale Reidelberger this week announced his candidacy for Perry County Sheriff in the November 2014 general election.

The announcement comes following a caucus with Perry County Republicans at its February meeting and gauging support among party members and the public.

His is the first announced entry into the race for sheriff. Like Reidelberger, others are trying to sort out how they might fare against Sheriff Keith Kellerman's substantial law enforcement career in the wake of dismissal of a public indecency misdemeanor incident in Caseyville, Ill. the end of 2011.

The newspaper contacted Sheriff Kellerman on Wednesday and he indicated only that he has not made a decision. He continues to enjoy broad support based upon the singular most important litmus test: Above all else, has he done his job well?

At the end of the day it will be voters weighing in on how public officials conduct themselves privately.

Political onlookers believe Reidelberger's early announcement is designed to garner some momentum within republican ranks before others jump in.

Reidelberger has a substantial career in law enforcement, as well. He was born in Perry County. He attended Granite City High School, served in the United States Marine Corps and is a Vietnam veteran. He worked at Granite City Steel in the accounting department, retired from the UMWA after 10 years, was a part-time Steeleville police officer, attended Belleville Area College Police Academy, was a full time Pinckneyville police officer (is currently part-time), and was lieutenant with the Perry County Sheriff's Department. He retired after 24 years. He has also worked with the SIU Police in the evidence department.

He began his career as a patrol officer in 1976 and collectively brings 35 years of experience to the polls in November 2014.

Other names being talked about on the social media are longtime sheriff's department deputy and resource officer Steve Bareis and Jerry Speers who had a solid following, but lost in a previous election.