Natrona County's top law enforcement official is hanging up his badge.

Sheriff Mark Benton has announced that he is retiring at the end of June due to health concerns.

Benton has served Natrona County for 40 years, and has 1 1/2 years remaining in his fourth term as Sheriff.

He is asking the media and members of the community to respect his privacy in the matter.

Since Benton is a Republican, the Natrona County Republican Party gets to select his replacement to finish the term.

Once the party has been officially notified, members have 15 days to submit three nominees to the Natrona County Commissioners, who then have five days after that, to choose the new Sheriff to complete Benton's term.

The position will be up for election in November 2014.

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