About Chuck Heit

I’m very proud to be serving as your Sheriff. Last November, the Sheriff Appointment Committee selected me to fill the remaining year of Sheriff Paul Bailey’s term in office and I am honored to now be your Sheriff.

My 21 years as Undersheriff has prepared me to lead and work alongside the hard-working men and women of the Sheriff’s Office and to serve the residents of Berrien County. The safety of you and your family is my top priority.

I am a 1987 graduate of New Buffalo High School and live in New Buffalo with my wife Michelle. We are the proud parents of three children and four grandchildren. I served on the New Buffalo School Board for over 20 years and I am also a past President of the New Buffalo and St Joseph Lions Clubs.

I was first hired as a police officer for the City of Buchanan in February, 1993 before joining the Berrien County Sheriff’s Office in December, 1993. While at the Sheriff’s Office, I served as a deputy in the jail and on the road patrol. I served as an Evidence Technician and was a member of the Tactical Response Unit. I left the Sheriff’s Office in 1999 when I was hired as the Chief of Police for the City of New Buffalo and returned to the Sheriff’s Office three years later where I have served as Undersheriff since January 1, 2003. I commanded the Motor Unit for 20 years and I graduated in 2011 from the FBI National Academy, which is known as one of the premier law enforcement training programs in the world.

I’m honored to have the endorsement of Sheriff Paul Bailey. Sheriff Bailey stated, “Chuck has served as my Undersheriff for 20 years and I have personally witnessed his hard work and dedication. He is by far the most qualified person to serve as Sheriff for Berrien County and is a man of strong faith and integrity.”

Since my appointment, endorsements have come in from Retired Sheriff Paul Bailey, former Prosecutor Steve Pierangeli and every Police Chief/Public Safety Director in Berrien County. Their support and trust in my ability to lead the Sheriff’s Office means a great deal to me. I am currently the only candidate with administrative experience and understanding of the role and authority of the Office of Sheriff. Experience Matters.

I ask you to support me as your candidate for Berrien County Sheriff. You can do that in a few ways:

1. Financial – I respectfully seek your consideration of a financial donation towards my campaign, which can be made on this page.

2. Volunteer – We will need volunteers to represent Heit for Sheriff in parades, events, and knock doors. Email Chuck at chuck@chuckheitforsheriff.com if you’d like to volunteer.

3. Vote – Vote for Chuck Heit for Sheriff during the August 6th election. Remember, a vote for me is a vote for Experience, Proven Leadership, and Integrity.


I couldn't do this without your support. Thank you to all of you!

Sheriff Chuck Heit