WINFIELD, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Chief Hayzlett of the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department has expressed his intention to retire at the end of the month according to a Wednesday announcement from Sheriff Robert Eggleton.
“It was with much respect and sadness that I accepted the notice of retirement of Chief Hayzlett yesterday,” wrote Eggleton.
“When I took office in January 2021 Chief Hayzlett accepted my vision for the department and the goals I had for the county. He aided and assisted me at every point and gave me advice and knowledge that I needed. He was never a ‘yes man’ but when given direction by me, he owned it like a true leader does.”
Hayzlett’s official notice, submitted on Tuesday, indicates his intended exit date to be Friday, September, 30, 2022 at close of business.
“While I look forward to enjoying my retirement, I will miss being part of the department,” Hayzlett wrote. “I trust the friendships and professional relationships I have developed here will last well into the future.”
First coming onboard with the department in the mid-90s, Hayzlett has worked with the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department for nearly three decades – over 27 years total – under the direction of 5 different sheriffs.
“During my career I have grown both personally and professionally,” Hayzlett continues. “My personal and professional growth has been in large part due to the mentoring I have received from Sheriff Mark Smith and [Sheriff Robert Eggleton.]”
Sheriff Eggleton and Chief Hayzlett had discussed the possibility of the latter’s retirement at length, and the sheriff has voiced his support for Hayzlett’s decision to move forward with his departure.
“Chief Hayzlett told me upon taking the position that he would do his best for me and the department,” said Eggleton. “I have always encouraged everyone to retire when they can draw and are prepared. I totally [support] his decision.”