Ketelsen Retires as Jo Daviess County Sheriff, Kretschmer Appointed

After nearly three decades in law enforcement serving the community, Craig Ketelsen has officially retired as sheriff of the Jo Daviess County Sheriff's Office. His retirement became effective Sunday, March 15th, 2026, following his decision to accept a position with the State of Illinois.

During the March 10th meeting, the Jo Daviess County Board voted to appoint Chief Deputy Klaus Kretschmer to fill the vacancy. Kretschmer officially assumed the role of sheriff on Monday, March 16th.

Ketelsen’s career with the sheriff’s office spans 28 years, a tenure marked by his commitment to serving the residents of Jo Daviess County and working alongside the deputies and staff who help keep the community safe. In reflecting on his time in office, Ketelsen expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve the county where he built his life and raised his family.

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He also emphasized the strong connection between the community and its law enforcement officers, and praised the professionalism and dedication of his colleagues. Ketelsen emphasized that the people who serve the county demonstrate courage, integrity, and a deep sense of responsibility to the communities they protect.

Stepping into the role is Kretschmer, who brings familiarity and experience to the position. Before being appointed sheriff, he served as Chief Deputy with the department and has held other supervisory roles during his time. His appointment allows for continuity within the department during the leadership transition. While Kretschmer is currently serving as sheriff following the board’s appointment, the position will still be determined by voters in the upcoming election cycle this fall. He will be running as the Republican Party candidate for sheriff. Currently no Democrat is on the ballot.

Below is the full statement released by Sheriff Ketelsen upon his retirement:

"It has been my privilege to serve Jo Daviess County for the past 28 years, and to finish my career as your Sheriff. The people of this county are some of the best people I have ever met, and I was very lucky to be able to live here, raise a family here, and serve here. I am grateful for the support our communities have for their law enforcement, and I know the men and women who serve you feel an immense appreciation for that as well. These men and women exemplify courage, professionalism, and a deep commitment to the people they serve every single day, and I am proud to have had the opportunity to stand alongside them. Please know that your county government and departments work very hard for you every single day. I have seen firsthand the dedication and professionalism from our county elected officials, department heads, employees, and Board, and I assure you that, not only are they extremely competent in their positions, they also take great pride in getting it right for you. Our county is better because of them. Serving the citizens of Jo Daviess County has been one of the greatest honors of my life. I will always be grateful for the trust you placed in me and in this office. I have complete confidence that the Jo Daviess County Sheriff's Office will continue to serve this county with pride and excellence for many years to come."

-Craig Ketelsen, Jo Daviess County Sheriff Retiree