The
March 27, 2025
Union County Sheriff Mike Justice, left, talks with dispatchers Rose Robinson, middle, and Stephanie Wilhelm, right, in the 911 dispatch center at the sheriff’s office recently. Justice shared his thoughts with the Journal-Tribune about taking on the role as Union County Sheriff as well as some guiding principles for the job. (Gazette photo by Michael Williamson)

The people-first sheriff

 

Editor’s note: Union County Sheriff Mike Justice allowed the Journal-Tribune to shadow him as he went about his rounds one day recently, sharing his perspectives a few months in on the job.

–––

By Michael Williamson, Richwood Gazette

Just a few months into the job, Mike Justice said being sheriff is and isn’t what he expected it to be.

Since first stepping into the role in November and officially so in January, Justice said he’s keeping busy but enjoying the experience.

“I’m busy, but it’s not always the kind of busy I expected to be,” he said on an active Thursday morning. “So far, it’s not as stressful as I thought …

Read this entire article as it appeared in print in our eEdition

LATEST NEWS
Bailey named interim county commissioner
Local News
By Michael Williamson, Richwood Gazette Shaun Bailey is stepping into the role of Union County commissioner a little early. The county’s Republican Pa...
June 18, 2026
Richwood projects funded in state budget
Local News
From Gazette staff reports Several projects in Union County, including two in Richwood, are slated to receive state funding after State Rep. Tracy Ric...
June 18, 2026
Auditor: Change must come from statehouse
Local News
By Michael Williamson, Richwood Gazette As bills passed by the Ohio Statehouse are starting to take effect, Union County Auditor Andrea Weaver said he...
June 18, 2026
Police Beat
Community
May 31 6:04 p.m. — Officers responded to the 300 block of E. Blagrove St. for a dispute between neighbors. June 1 1:29 p.m. — Officers responded to th...
June 18, 2026