Lehigh County Sheriff Hanna announces bid for second term

Joe Hanna has announced his bid for re-election for Sheriff of Lehigh County.

He will seek the nomination of the Republican Party in May.

Hanna was elected in 2015 after a 34-year career with the Allentown Police, retiring as chief, and as a former Lehigh County detective.

Hanna is proud of the innovations he has brought to the sheriff’s office, including new policy and procedures, consistent with best practices in law enforcement. He anticipates the office to be accredited by the Pennsylvania Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission by late 2019. Hanna introduced the first Explosives Detection and Tracking Canine to the Sheriff’s office. “Nevie” has been credited with identification and examination of numerous suspicious packages. Hanna promoted enhanced training for supervisors and deputies in various areas of law enforcement. Hanna realigned divisions within the office, enhancing productivity. He instituted more structure in the hiring practices while expanding diversity within the office.

Hanna created a Community Outreach Program where deputies are encouraged to engage the community.

Hanna works with the County of Lehigh Administration and the Lehigh County Commissioners to ensure that his office is providing efficient service while being fiscally responsible to the taxpayers. Grants totaling over $300,000 have been awarded to the sheriff’s office during his tenure.

Hanna holds a Bachelor of Arts in criminal justice from Moravian College and is a graduate of the U.S. Department of Justice FBI National Academy and Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command.

He is the 2013 recipient of the Colonel John K. Schafer Award for professional excellence in law enforcement. During his service with the Allentown Police Department, Hanna received four departmental commendations, two for bravery.

A lifelong resident of Lehigh County, Hanna resides in Lower Macungie Township with his wife of 35 years, Randy Anne. They have two children, Jared and Michelle.

Hanna said, “I have been privileged and humbled to collectively serve the citizens of Allentown and Lehigh County for the past 39 years. It would be an honor to continue my commitment to the progress and safety of our county by serving another term as your sheriff.”