OWEGO, NY (607NewsNow) – Top cop candidates are emerging in Tioga County.

Former members of the Tioga County Sheriff’s Office, Frank Lavore and Shawn Nalepa, have officially announced plans to run for Sheriff next year.

Both men seek the Republican nomination in the wake of last week’s announcement that current Sheriff Gary Howard will not seek reelection at the end of his term, which ends in December 2027.

Retired member of the Tioga County Sheriff’s Office Frank Lavore has announced his candidacy for sheriff. Credit: Frank Lavore

Lavore retired in 2022 after 25 years with the sheriff’s office. The Berkshire resident currently serves as a part-time officer with the Owego Police Department.

Retired member of the Tioga County Sheriff’s Office Shawn Nalepa has announced his candidacy for sheriff. Credit: Shawn Nalepa

Nalepa, who lives in Apalachin, served nearly 27 years with the sheriff’s office before becoming Training Director for the Broome County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Division.

As of now, no Democrat has formally announced intentions to run for Tioga County Sheriff. The Primary Election will take place in June 2027, and the General Election is scheduled for November 2, 2027.