Historic Election Names Fatheree First Female Sheriff In Summit County

Following Tuesday’s Election Day (November 3), unofficial results show that Democratic candidate Kandy Fatheree pulled a win against Republican opponent Shane Barker, making her the first female sheriff of Summit County.

Fatheree prevailed with about 52% of the votes, versus Barker’s 48%. This election marks the next step in her 25-year career at the sheriff’s office, where she currently serves as a captain. Barker also served 25 years at the sheriff’s office and retired last year, cleveland.com reported Wednesday morning (November 4)

Outgoing Sheriff Steve Barry, a Democrat who has served two terms, will retire after a four-decade career at the sheriff’s office, according to cleveland.com.

Although Barry is a Democrat, he opted to endorse Barker in the November election, the Akron Beacon Journal reported last month. The outgoing sheriff dubbed the decision a “very difficult” one.

Among other campaign promises, Fatheree aims to hire a hail administrator — among other staffing expansions — and emphasizing training, according to cleveland.com. She was also the first female officer of the Lakemore Police Department when she launched her career.

“It’s not easy being a female in law enforcement,” Fatheree told the Akron Beacon Journal last month. “I have fought to get promoted.”

Fatheree noted on her campaign website that she has "a deep appreciation for our great community," she said. "That appreciation has led me to commit most of my life to keeping our residents safe and secure, ensuring justice for all, and working for more efficient and responsive law enforcement. I respectfully ask for your support in my effort to serve as your Summit County Sheriff."

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