McConnahea
Photo courtesy of Allen County Sheriff’s Office
LIMA — Andre McConnahea has stepped down from his position as a major and public information officer with the Allen County Sheriff’s Office to take a position in the private sector.
McConnahea, with 20 years of law enforcement experience, has been a full-time employee of the sheriff’s office since Jan. 4, 2007. He confirmed Thursday that he will start a new job at an unspecified private company on Monday. He said the job involves “very similar work” to responsibilities he was involved with at the sheriff’s office, including labor relations duties.
“This move was the best for my family and myself,” McConnahea said. “There’s a lot of time involved in policing … long days and late-night phone calls. This (new position) just works out really well for me, and I thank God for that.”
McConnahea also was elected last November as mayor of the City of Delphos. He said that factored into his decision to leave law enforcement. He also quickly dispelled rumors that he had been forced out of his position by Sheriff Matt Treglia.
“Nothing could be further from the truth. I love Matt. He and Todd (Major Todd Mohler) have been great to me. I want to thank Matt for standing by me; he’s been very supportive,” McConnahea said.
Taking over the position formerly held by McConnahea will be Shane Hartman, a former captain with the sheriff’s office. Before that, he was a sergeant with the Shawnee Township Police Department. Hartman was recently promoted to the rank of major.
“I know Shane will do a great job. I’m glad I got to spend some time to help him get up and running,” McConnahea said. “It makes me feel comfortable that we are going to have a smooth transition.”
Treglia, in a prepared statement, wished McConnahea well in his new position.
“My administration and I truly with nothing but the best for Andre, his family and his future endeavors. We look forward to working with him as he continues to serve the city of Delphos,” the sheriff said.
