Endorsements

The Community Behind the Candidate

MIKE LAUTZENHEISER SR.

I have been fortunate to know David Rigney for almost two decades. In addition, I had the pleasure of working with Dave for several years when I was the Wells County Prosecutor and Dave was the Ossian Chief of Police. Dave was an exceptional law enforcement officer, a first-class administrator, and a great steward of the people’s trust. I believe this rare combination of attributes would translate most favorably to being an extraordinary Sheriff for Wells County, Indiana. Individuals with Dave Rigney’s extensive law enforcement experience, his knowledge of administration, and his leadership skills are a rare commodity. However, it is not just his law enforcement history and job skills that set Dave apart. He is also one of the finest people I have ever had the pleasure to know. Dave is a hard-working person of intelligence, common sense and fairness that would make Wells County a safer place for all of us to live and prosper. His dedication to his craft, his compassion for others, his unparalleled honesty, and his decency as a human being are equally important traits that make David Rigney uniquely qualified to serve Wells County as Sheriff.

Former Wells County Prosecutor

REV. KENT KOTESKEY

I’ve known David Rigney from the unique perspective of serving as the chaplain of the department he so ably led in Ossian. In those years I served him and his officers, we walked through some extraordinarily difficult and stressful situations. And every time I observed David remaining cool and controlled as he compassionately served our community. Paired with that compassion is a deep knowledge of the law. Knowledge paired with compassion results in David’s wisdom— and that’s what makes David a great choice to lead once again!

Executive Pastor

BOB FRANTZ

I have known Dave Rigney since he came to Ossian to be the chief of police in Ossian. Dave's knowledge of law enforcement and his leadership skills are excellent. He is a leader that gets things done. He has worked in all areas of police work including including investigations. As Chief of police in Ossian. He worked along with his officers to make sure they were safe both day and night. He cares about people and Wells County. Dave is exactly who we need to be the Sheriff of Wells County.

Former Sheriff of Wells County & Chief of Police, Bluffton.

PASTOR MATTHEW GULLION

I am thankful for David and his leadership in the past and highly recommend him as Well’s County Sheriff!

Lead Pastor at First Baptist Church, Ossian.

MICHAEL K. VANOVER

As a sitting County Commissioner for District 1 and Vice President of the Wells County Board of Commissioners, I take seriously the responsibility to speak thoughtfully about those who seek positions of public trust. The office of Sheriff is one of the most powerful and important positions in our state. It comes with the highest law-enforcement authority and carries a solemn duty to uphold both the law and the Constitution.

I am writing in support of David Rigney as a candidate for Sheriff because I believe he possesses the integrity, judgment, and respect for constitutional principles that this office demands.

Law enforcement is not merely about enforcing statutes; it is about serving the people under the rule of law. True authority comes from the consent of the governed, and it must be exercised with fairness, restraint, and accountability. David understands this balance. He respects due process, values individual rights, and recognizes that the badge represents service — not unchecked power.

In a time when public trust in institutions is strained, David brings a steady and principled approach. He listens before acting, treats people with dignity, and understands that the Sheriff’s Office must answer first to the Constitution and to the citizens it serves — not to politics or personal ambition. It’s time to push past the way it’s been.

I believe David Rigney has the character and temperament necessary to serve Wells County honorably as Sheriff. I offer this recommendation with confidence and in the interest of the community we both serve.

Michael K. Vanover Vice President, Wells County Board of Commissioners

County Commissioner, District 1

Wells County, IN

JEFF STRINGER

I am writing in full support of David Rigney for Wells County Sheriff. David possesses the most Chief Executive experience, proven leadership and education. Without doubt , David is the most qualified candidate to move the Sheriff’s Department forward in a positive direction.

Jeff Stringer, President

Wells County Board of Commissioners

District 3 Wells County, IN