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DURHAM -- Worth Hill said Tuesday he will seek a fifth term as sheriff, which would make him the third-longest-serving sheriff in Durham County's history.
Hill, 72, said he plans to formally enter the race when the filing period opens in February.
The primary is in May and the general election in November. Hill said he'll run as a Democrat.
"A lot of people have come to me the last few months and encouraged me to run again, so I've decided to do so, because I'm proud of what we've accomplished,'' Hill said. "But there are some other things I'd like to see done before I retire.''
Hill said a top goal is to have a separate building to use as a training academy for deputies.
"We've been after a training academy for many years, and it was supposed to be on the list to happen, and it hasn't happened. But there's a possibility it might happen in the near future, so I want to see that accomplished.''
Hill said he will also be busy "making plans to move into the new courthouse.''
"So, we've got a lot on the plate, and I want to see it completed before I finally decide to hang it up.''
Hill, a lifelong Durham resident, was first elected sheriff in 1994.
He has been in law enforcement for more than 45 years, retiring at the rank of major from the Durham Police Department in 1988 after 30 years on the force.
Hill cited his efforts to have deputies placed in the public schools and an emphasis on investigating Internet and drug crimes as priorities during his administration.
If he completes a fifth four-year term, his 20 years in office would make him the longest serving Durham County sheriff except for John F. Harward, who served from 1906-1930, and Eugene G. Belvin, who served from 1930-1958.
Hill said his health is good and he still enjoys being sheriff.
"I'm proud of our people and their attitude,'' he said. "And I'm still enjoying the job. So I'm not ready for the rocking chair.''
