By PHYLLIS ZORN

Staff writer

Undersheriff David Huntley is retiring today after spending 14 of his 40 years in law enforcement with Marion County and four of them with the city of Florence.

When Huntley, a Florence native, returned to the sheriff’s office in 2009 after being in Harvey County for 22 years, he felt good about coming back to his home county.

“When I started as sheriff here,” his boss, Robert Craft said, “he brought 30 years experience in law enforcement. He brought all that experience with him, which helped as an undersheriff.”

Huntley’s most memorable experience in law enforcement came from his time in Harvey County, when fellow officer Kurt Ford was shot to death during a forced entry at a hostage situation.

He wants people to know they shouldn’t be afraid of law enforcement.

“We’re here to help you,” he said. “We’re here to assist the citizens.”

“It’s been a great 40 years,” Huntley said. “I will miss it, but I will get over it.”

His retirement plans include spending more time on his farm, where he raises brome hay, cattle, horses, and goats.

Huntley’s replacement has not yet been named.

“I don’t want to rush into something,” Craft said. “We’ll take a little time to get the right person for the job.”

Craft isn’t committed to promoting from within and could decide on someone from an outside agency.