Pendergrass re-elected to eighth term as Orange County Sheriff

Democratic incumbent Lindy Pendergrass won his eighth consecutive term as Orange County Sheriff after defeating Republican Buddy Parker in Tuesday’s election.

Pendergrass won about 76 percent of the votes, according to unofficial election results.

At 75 years old, Pendergrass will continue a 53-year streak in Orange County law enforcement.

Parker said he thought the race was a fair one.

“I hope he continues to serve the people of Orange County like he has for the last 28 years,” Parker said. “But it’s time for someone else to take over that mantle.”

Pendergrass’ campaign was centered on the use of grants as a way to avoid using taxpayers’ dollars during the recession.

He also sought to expand the Project Lifesaver program, which uses electronic wristbands to locate people with autism, dementia or Alzheimer’s who have wandered away from their caregivers.

Parker, a Hillsborough Police Department sergeant, focused his campaign on emphasizing cooperation between municipal law enforcement agencies and task forces.

Supporters of Parker said they appreciate his conservative principles and commitment.

“He isn’t as experienced as Pendergrass,” said Greg Randall, a supporter of the Hillsborough sergeant. “But he isn’t as entrenched in the system.”

Fellow supporter Bob Guringer said he thinks Pendergrass has been around too long.

“We need to get cleaned out a little bit,” Guringer said. “It doesn’t matter whether you’re Republican or Democrat.”

Parker also ran against Pendergrass in 2006 but was defeated when Pendergrass received 81 percent of the votes.

Multiple attempts to reach Pendergrass were not answered.

Parker said he has several ideas he hoped would be implemented into the county and will give his opinions to Pendergrass if he asks.

He said he plans on running again in 2014.

“That campaign begins tomorrow.”

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