Harnett County Sheriff Wayne Coats announced his retirement Wednesday on Facebook.
Coats wrote, "After much prayer and reflection, I have made the decision to retire as the Sheriff of Harnett County." He has served as sheriff since 2016.
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The Harnett County sheriff seat will be on the ballot in 2026. In his post, Coats said he will complete his term but not run again.
He thanked deputies, detention officers and civilian employees of the sheriff's office, writing, "Your integrity, dedication and support for me has been exceptional."