Commentary: Zach Hardin Launches 2026 Calhoun County Sheriff's Office Campaign

Zach Hardin

Aug 4, 2025 11:01 AM

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To Whom it May Concern:

I, Zach Hardin, am proud to announce my candidacy for Sheriff of Calhoun County in the 2026 election. I currently reside in Brussels, Illinois, with my two daughters, Sophia and Amelia.

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My love for Calhoun County stemmed from my childhood summers spent with my grandparents at their farm in "Cappelville" (Point Precinct). I was born in Alton, Illinois and graduated from Alton High School in 2007. I attended Lewis & Clark Community College with a focus on History and Criminal Justice.

I had the honor ofjoining the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office in 2019, when I was hired as a Deputy Sheriff. I was promoted to Sergeant in December of 2022, where I served as the Patrol Supervisor; before being promoted to Chief Deputy Sheriff in March, 2024. While working for CCSO, I have continued my training, and am currently a Lead Homicide Investigator, High-Risk Traffic Stop Instructor, Juvenile Officer, and a member of the Illinois Crisis Intervention Team.

During my time here, I have been dedicated to the prevention of crime, taking a very proactive stance to combat illegal activities in Calhoun County. I believe this persistence has been made evident, leaving criminals to second-guess coming to Calhoun County. I have continued to hone my investigative prowess through conducting numerous major investigations which have included: sexual assault, child exploitation, methamphetamine and narcotics distribution, burglary, fraud, auto theft, and prostitution.

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As the Chief Deputy in a smaller agency, in addition to my administrative duties; I believe it is paramount to lead by example, and from the front. I still patrol our roadways, but also provide guidance and insight when necessary; as well as training to staff. Prior to serving in Law Enforcement, I gained experience managing personnel, budgets, and liability while working in management for several major private security firms for over eight years in various supervisory or administrative roles, including; Operations / Personnel Manager, Training Director, and Human Resources Manager. Following that, I gained further experience as a Private Investigator. While serving the County of Calhoun, I have always tried to treat every person with respect and dignity, regardless of their circumstance.

I strive to be the person I'd want my family to have answer the call, if they ever needed an officer. I have always been dedicated to fostering a culture of cooperation, transparency and trust between the members of the Calhoun County Sheriff's Office and our community that we serve. Critical to this mission is providing professional but compassionate; yet effective and proactive service. The Calhoun County Sheriff's Office is an office elected by the people; not only to serve and protect, but to represent the values and needs of those we serve.

Much like Sheriff Bill, I also firmly understand the responsibility of protecting and upholding the Constitution of the United States, and the Rights guaranteed therein. Although, I have big shoes to fill; if I am elected as your Sheriff, I promise that under my care, this office will continue to always be a Sheriff's Office by The People, for The People. With that, I humbly ask for your vote in the 2026 election for Sheriff of Calhoun County.

- Zach Hardin

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