The Monroe County sheriff announced on Wednesday that he would soon resign, citing the need to support his family with a new opportunity.
Sheriff Sean Crosier said in a news release that he would step down in early September. He did not say who would replace him.
"This has been one of the most difficult decisions I have ever made for many reasons, however my family obligations have taken a 180-degree turn," he said in the release.
His wife's retirement will come later than expected, the release states, so Crosier will adapt to a new role.
Though his new employer is not listed, the release said Crosier plans to work with the U.S. Department of Defense and other national security agencies.
He will prepare the agencies for chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive attacks, the release states.
"Ultimately, I will continue to serve Monroe County, but from a broader perspective," he said.
County residents elected Crosier sheriff in November 2016. He defeated Scott Miller by just over 900 votes.
Before the election, Crosier served at the Kanawha County Sheriff's Office for 27 years.
He started on road patrol in 1987, working under former sheriff and current Charleston mayor Danny Jones.
Crosier then joined the SWAT team and later became one of the few deputies to administer polygraph tests.
His father, Jerry, served Monroe County as a game warden for 17 years, and then as its sheriff for two terms. Crosier's grandfather, Virgil, worked as a game warden in the county for about two decades.
Crosier grew up in the hayfields of Monroe County - his sights set on a career in baseball.
Four Major League Baseball teams followed his progress. Then Crosier injured a nerve while playing in the outfield.
Crosier instead followed his passion for law enforcement and continued the family legacy.
He dodged bullets at least six times during his career. Still, Crosier persisted.
"I wanted to play pro ball," he said previously, "but I wanted to be a policeman more."
As a candidate for sheriff, he wanted to create an anonymous tip line, neighborhood watch programs and a plan to combat the opioid crisis.
In his release on Wednesday, Crosier said he is satisfied with the progress made during his time in office.
"In a brief period, we have made great strides improving law enforcement here, from many perspectives," Crosier said.
Reach Giuseppe Sabella at giuseppe.sabella@wvgazettemail.com, 304-348-5189 or follow @Gsabella on Twitter.