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In an official letter, the Boone County Sheriff announced his retirement due to health challenges associated with Parkinson's disease.
According to the letter, after consulting with his medical team and family, Sheriff Michael Helmig said that his last day will be April 15, 2025. He has been experiencing an "unexpected decline in health" and wishes to ensure a seamless transition for the new sheriff.
Helmig publicly announced his Parkinson's diagnosis two years ago after being given approval by his doctor to continue his duties. The disease primarily impacted his speech, so it was determined that he could still work.
Helmig has served as Boone County Sheriff for 27 years. "I am proud of my team, and the work they do every day serving the community," he said. "My Office has earned the reputation of being one of the most well-respected law enforcement agencies in the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and this has always brought me an immense amount of pride."
Sheriff Helmig was sworn into office in 1982 as a deputy sheriff. He has served in multiple law enforcement roles, including detective, sergeant, lieutenant, and as Sheriff Ron Kenner's Chief Deputy. Kenner unexpectedly passed away on May 15, 1997, and Helmig was sworn in as Boone County Sheriff on May 20, 1997.
Helmig expanded the Boone County Sheriff's program with specialized fields. He was responsible for developing one of Kentucky's "most robust School Resource Officer (SRO) programs." It started with one SRO in 1999 and has grown to 36 officers who cover every public school and even some private schools throughout the county. Helmig expressed pride in having led this department and served his community for so many years.
