John Jester
Experienced. Ethical. Proven Leadership.
With more than 35 years of law enforcement and public service experience, John Jester is running for Sheriff of Hancock County to provide steady, accountable leadership focused on public safety, professionalism, and community trust.
John has served Hancock County as a police officer, Chief of Police, County Coroner, City Councilman, and City Council President. His record reflects a lifelong commitment to service and the confidence of voters time and again.
Vision & Leadership
John Jester’s vision for the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office is rooted in experience, professionalism, and respect for the community. He believes effective law enforcement starts with strong leadership, clear accountability, and trust between deputies and the people they serve.
With decades of experience leading law enforcement agencies and public institutions, John understands that today’s Sheriff must balance public safety with sound management, transparency, and long-term planning. His approach is steady and thoughtful, focused on building upon what is already working while making responsible improvements where needed.
John is committed to advancing public safety, supporting the men and women of the Sheriff’s Department, and preparing the next generation of leaders to ensure continuity, professionalism, and excellence well into the future.
About John
John Jester has dedicated his professional life to serving the people of Hancock County.
He began his law enforcement career in 1990 and was promoted to a supervisory role just three years later. Early in his career, John served as the only K-9 handler for the Greenfield Police Department at that time, before advancing into leadership roles including Lieutenant of Road Patrol and Lieutenant in charge of Investigations.
In 2008, John was promoted to Chief of Police for the Greenfield Police Department, a position he held until his retirement in 2016. During his tenure, he led the department with professionalism and accountability, overseeing personnel, operations, and budgets.
Following his retirement, John joined Community Health Network as Director of Security, where he built a newly created police department from the ground up and was appointed its first and only Chief.
Endorsements
Douglas G. Carter
To the Residents of Hancock County, Indiana:As the 2026 election cycle is quickly approaching, I hope you will consider supporting John Jester as the next Sheriff of Hancock County. I have personally known John for more than 30 years and have always admired his...
Joshua Holden
To Whom It May Concern,I am writing to offer my strong support for John Jester as he runs for the office of Sheriff. I have known John for many years as a trusted friend and respected member of our community, and I can confidently speak to his character, leadership,...
D . Breck Terheide
Dear Hancock County Residents, Next year you will be selecting a new Sheriff for Hancock County. While there will be several good choices, I would like to take the opportunity to introduce a friend and colleague who would make an exceptional choice. John Jester has...