Dennis Lemma

Dennis M. Lemma (born November 18, 1971) is an American politician, law enforcement officer, and Marine Corps veteran who has served as the 10th sheriff of Seminole County, Florida since 2017. A member of the Republican Party, he previously served as chief deputy sheriff before his election.

Early life and career Lemma was born on November 18, 1971. Lemma is a graduate of the FBI National Academy and served in the United States Marine Corps.

Sheriff of Seminole County (2017–present) In August 2015, longtime county sheriff Donald F. Eslinger announced he would not seek re-election in 2016 and "all but endorsed" Lemma for the position. Lemma was the only candidate to qualify for the election and was declared sheriff-elect in June 2016. On January 3, 2017, he was sworn in as the 10th sheriff of Seminole County. Lemma also served during the George Floyd protests, responding by increasing minority recruiting.

In 2020, Lemma was re-elected to a second term, defeating Democratic nominee Paul "Spike" Hopkins, with 58% of the vote.

In 2024, Lemma was re-elected unopposed to a third term as sheriff.

Personal life Lemma is married to his wife, Diana; they have two sons, Dylan and Dayne, and live in Oviedo, Florida. Sheriff Lemma commented on the arrest, saying: "I firmly believe that my family should be held to the same standard as anyone else in the community, and while I love my son and family dearly, they, too, are not above the law."