OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. – Osceola County Sheriff Marcos Lopez will retain his position after winning his race against challenger Donnie Martinez on Election Day.
Incumbent Sheriff Lopez beat out the crowded primary field back in August, beating out four other candidates to run as the Democratic candidate during this year’s general election.
Recommended Videos
Nov. 5 Results For Central Florida Races
Votes
%
Marcos R. Lopez*(D)
Donnie Martinez(R)
(142 / 142)
Meanwhile, Martinez was the Republican candidate, and he’s offering to bring a “new vision” to the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office if picked for the role.
Here’s a look at both candidates who were on the ballot.
[RESULTS 2024: Complete Coverage | How to vote in the Nov. 5 presidential election | Here’s what to expect on the Nov. 5 election ballot in Osceola County]
Meet the candidates
Marcos Lopez: Website
Lopez is the incumbent sheriff, having been sworn in on Jan. 5, 2021.
At 17 years old, Lopez joined the U.S. military and completed 22 years of service. He began his career with the OCSO back in 2003 while serving in the Navy Reserve and after receiving an associate degree in criminal justice.
After becoming sheriff, Lopez implemented a real-time crime center and several new specialty units, including the Tactical Anti-Crime Unit, Osceola County Narcotics Bureau, and a Fugitive Extradition Program with Puerto Rico.
Donnie Martinez: Website
Martinez is an Osceola County native and a recent graduate of the Law Enforcement Academy.
According to Martinez, he has a history of volunteering for local city government, the chamber of commerce, his local church, and the school system.
During this year’s race, Martinez touted his managerial record, having owned and operated local businesses ranging from pool operations, lawn care, real estate, property management, and a title agency. Martinez says he wants to bring his managerial record to the sheriff’s office to help tackle issues like crime, drug addiction and mental health issues.