SOUTHLAND : Duffy Quits S.D. Sheriff’s Race

In a surprise announcement, Sheriff John Duffy said today he won’t run for reelection.

Duffy had earlier indicated that he would run for a record sixth term. But at a news conference, Duffy said he was tired of battling the media and now planned to retire in January, 1991, when his current term expires.

Duffy was facing a challenge from several law enforcement veterans in next June’s primary, including one from a subordinate, Sheriff’s Capt. Jim Roache, along with Escondido Police Chief Vince Jimno.

Duffy has recently come under criticism from county officials for his management of the Sheriff’s Department as well as the running of the county’s six jails. Questions also have been raised in the media about the alleged use of county equipment in Duffy’s domestic security system.