AKRON, Ohio — After nearly a quarter century serving Summit County as its prosecutor, Sherri Bevan Walsh is set to retire next month.
In a release, the 63-year-old Walsh announced her retirement effective Feb. 16. The decision to step down comes as she prepares to undergo heart surgery later this month to combat the effects of heart failure that was related to her contracting the COVID-19 virus.
“My hope was to be able to continue serving the residents of Summit County. However, because of recent events, I realized I was not going to be able to provide the high level of devotion this job needs, and Summit County deserves," Walsh wrote in a statement. "I’m still very passionate about fighting for victims, keeping the community safe, and holding criminals accountable. I am also very passionate about protecting children and our community’s seniors. I just cannot continue at the pace the position of County Prosecutor requires."
Walsh was first elected as Summit County prosecutor in 2000 and went on to serve six consecutive terms, the longest tenure in the county's history.
“I am so pleased to have served the Summit County community for over 23 years. I sincerely thank all those who helped me on my mission to make Summit County a better and safer place to live," she added.
Shortly after Walsh's retirement date on Feb. 16, the Summit County Democratic Party Precinct Committee will vote to appoint an acting prosecutor to complete the current term, which ends January 5, 2025. Walsh already has a successor in mind.
“It is my hope the committee will appoint Elliot Kolkovich, my current Outreach Prosecutor," she said. "He is the most experienced and best person to lead the office moving forward.
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