Sad news today from Contra Costa County.
The longtime sheriff of the county died today following a short illness.
Warren Rupf, 69, was in local law enforcement for 45 years before retiring last year.
"Today we lost a great man, a great leader and a true statesman,” said current Sheriff David O. Livingston. "His first priority was always the public safety of the Contra Costa County community and supporting the people he worked with. My heart goes out to his wife Carole and all of his children and grandchildren during this difficult time."
Rupf started working for the sheriff’s office in 1965.
He was appointed assistant sheriff in 1979 and then sheriff in 1992.
When he started, Contra Costa County had 523 sheriff employees. That number ballooned to 1,000 employees at the time of his retirement last year.
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Rupf is also being remembered for his efforts in his community. Through his increased involved in the Sheriff’s Posse of Contra Costa and the community, he created Sheriff’s Charities, Inc to help youth and service organizations.
The Contra Costa Times reported in July that Rupf had been diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia.
Funeral plans are still be made.
