Bringing Justice to Every Corner of Onondaga County.
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meet rj lenhart
RJ Lenhart brings over 30 years of continuous, comprehensive experience in every aspect of law enforcement, having dedicated his life to serving and protecting our community.
As Sheriff, RJ promises to uphold the principles of justice and integrity, drawing on his extensive law enforcement experience to protect and serve the people of Onondaga County, ensuring their safety and well-being with unwavering dedication and professionalism.
Entered public service at the age of 18 when he joined his local volunteer fire department. There, he quickly became certified as an EMT and went on to complete his Paramedic Training at S.U.N.Y Health Science Center.
Was sworn in as a Syracuse Police Officer in 1994 and served in various assignments that further developed his skills and understanding of Patrol, Investigations, Tactical Operations (SWAT), Emergency Management, Officer and Community Training and more.
Upon retiring from the Syracuse Police Department, RJ was sworn in as a Senior Investigator for the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office where he was assigned to the Homicide Bureau handling high profile cases and securing convictions that brought justice to victims and their families.
In 2018, RJ was appointed to serve as Undersheriff for the Madison County Sheriff’s Office where he oversaw every aspect of the sheriff’s office, to include the Corrections Division, Civil Division, Police Division, Administration, Budget, Contracts, Negotiations, Policies and Program Development.
As Undersheriff, RJ was appointed by the NYS Sheriff’s Association to the Model Policy Committee for the NYS Division of Criminal Justice Services. This appointment gave a voice to Central New York to eliminate harmful language and concepts that were burdensome and unsafe for our Police and Corrections Personnel, while also addressing concerns that were misleading and detrimental to our community.
