Hamilton County Sheriff Simon Leis Jr. didn't want any speculation about his future plans, so he made it clear he doesn't intend to give up his post in 2004.

Leis

        Sheriff Leis, who turns 70 in 2004, will run for re-election to serve a fifth term. His announcement comes two years before the election, giving possible opponents the chance to bow out rather than face the 15-year incumbent.

        Sheriff Leis was elected sheriff in 1988, 1992, 1996 and 2000 after being appointed in 1987.

        “I enjoy the work,” Sheriff Leis said from his home Saturday. “I have a good department, and I want to maintain that.”

        Sheriff Leis wanted to dispel any speculation about his health, too. “I'm in great health,” he said.

        During his more than 40 years in public service, Sheriff Leis has served in a number of roles including prosecutor, judge and sheriff.

        His years of experience, he said, will help him “handle difficult situations” in the future. Sheriff Leis is known for prosecuting Hustler magazine publisher Larry Flynt in the 1970s.

        He has worked to keep officers fit. Mr. Leis, whose daily routine calls for a 4:30 a.m. workout, established fitness standards for personnel.

        He also takes credit for expanding drug units and establishing the department's first marine and aviation units.

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