Marion County Sheriff Chris Blair, who in the past has encouraged Villagers to arm themselves to protect from criminals, is now facing criminal charges.
The first-term sheriff and career law enforcement officer has been indicted on charges of perjury and official misconduct.
He was booked at the Marion County Jail on Friday afternoon and released after posting bond.
Gov. Rick Scott has appointed the Attorney General’s Office Director of Division of Victim Services and Criminal Justice Programs Emery Gainey as the interim sheriff of Marion County.
A grand jury began looking into the conduct of Blair’s deputies in cases in which they have been accused of using excessive force in making arrests.
Blair is accused of making false statements to the grand jury.
If convicted he could face up to five years behind bars.
“While we are disappointed to learn of the charges brought against Sheriff Chris Blair, we must not forget that many good men and women serve in the Marion County Sheriff’s Office with honor and dedication, and they will continue to serve and protect this community under the interim leadership of the governor’s appointee, Emery Gainey,” said Marion County Commission Chair Kathy Bryant.
“We are confident that this agency will rise above this difficult time, and we encourage all citizens of Marion County to embrace and support the hardworking men and women of the Marion County Sheriff’s Office,” she said.
Blair raised eyebrows this past December when he spoke at a town hall meeting at Mulberry Grove Recreation Center in The Villages and encouraged everyone in the audience to obtain their concealed carry permits. You can read more about that HERE
Blair is also facing a political challenge from his former boss., as Ed Dean is coming out of retirement to run again for sheriff.
