New Sheriff Takes the Helm in Pinal County, Ending Mark Lamb’s Era

By Matthew Holloway |

Ross Teeple, a Republican and U.S. Navy veteran, officially assumed the role of Sheriff of Pinal County. The former Sheriff, Mark Lamb, conducted the swearing-in ceremony earlier this month. Teeple’s tenure will commence on January 1, 2025.

Teeple’s background is extensive. With 16 years of service at the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office, his roles spanned from Patrol Deputy to Lieutenant, overseeing various departments, including Aviation and Search and Rescue. His long-standing commitment to law enforcement also includes 12 years as a Corrections Officer with the Arizona Department of Corrections, showcasing a diverse skill set crucial for his new position.

Throughout his career, Teeple has received multiple awards and commendations. His military service during Operation Desert Storm as a Sonar Technician aboard a fast attack submarine further demonstrates his dedication and capabilities.

In a statement on social media, Teeple expressed gratitude for the voters’ trust: “It’s a huge responsibility that I am so prepared for,” he said, emphasizing his deep connection with the community. He officially took office following a video introduction from Lamb, who highlighted Teeple’s readiness to carry forward the legacy he established.

During his remarks, Teeple acknowledged the high expectations associated with his new role, stating, “I want to thank the citizens of Pinal County… You made us the safest large county in Arizona.” He also humorously noted his desire for Lamb to have left “less big shoes to fill,” reaffirming his commitment to uphold the standards set by his predecessor.

Teeple’s victory in the 2024 General Election, where he outperformed Democratic candidate Patrick Melvin by a significant 27.2%, reflects the strong community support for the continuity of Lamb’s policies. This broad margin verifies the public’s confidence in Teeple’s leadership moving forward.

Matthew Holloway is a reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for updates or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.