Shawn Nalepa, a lifelong public servant with nearly 30 years of experience in local law enforcement, formally announced his candidacy as a Republican for Tioga County Sheriff in the 2027 election. Nalepa was joined by dozens of family, supporters, and local officials as he made the announcement at the Blue Dolphin Restaurant in Apalachin Thursday evening. The position is currently held by the Sheriff Gary Howard, who recently announced his retirement at the end of 2027.

“I’m ready to launch this campaign because we need strong, experienced leadership to keep the Sheriff’s Office moving forward while innovating for the future,” Nalepa said. “I know the challenges our communities face. I’ll bring my proven skills and lifetime of service to keep you and your family safe.”

Nalepa served for nearly 27 years with the Tioga County Sheriff’s Office in multiple roles throughout the agency, starting as a part-time Corrections Officer and eventually rising to the rank of Captain of Operations where he supervised over one hundred county employees, was in command of the Road Patrol, Corrections, Criminal Investigations, E-911 and Civil, provided fiscal oversight and more.

Nalepa currently serves as the Training Director of the Corrections Divisions within the Broome County Sheriff’s Office. He received his law enforcement training from their Corrections & Police Academies and later attended the FBI-LEEDA Command Leadership Institute.

Nalepa’s strong community roots and leadership extend beyond law enforcement as a Board Member with the Tioga County Chamber of Commerce and Tioga County Community Services Board, and volunteer with the NYS Office for the Prevention of Domestic Violence Regional Council, Knights of Columbus, Parrish Council, Special Olympics and Lions Camp Badger.

Nalepa is also a proud Member of the Tioga County Republican Committee where he has helped elect Republicans and champion Republican Conservative values across the county.

“I’m running for Tioga County Sheriff because our community deserves top public safety services to keep our residents safe,” said Nalepa. “The Sheriff’s Office is on the front lines every day preventing and responding to criminal activity so families, young professionals and retirees can live, work and thrive in our wonderful area. I’m ready to fight for every resident in Tioga County.”

Nalepa is a Republican, attended Broome County Community College, and lives in Apalachin with his wife, Maria. 

The Primary Election is scheduled for June 2027, and the General Election is November 2, 2027.