Pinellas Sheriff to Retire in November

Pinellas County Sheriff Jim Coats has announced he will retire Nov. 7 to support his wife, Cat, who is battling cancer.

His wife was diagnosed with cancer a few months ago.

“It was a difficult decision,” Coats said. “It’s a journey for two."

Coats has been alongside his wife of 38 years for the past few weeks as she went through various tests. She will have to go through chemotherapy and other treatments for about a year, Coats said.

“As we went through the treatment, there was a lot of apprehension and concern," he said. "I just want to participate in that journey with her."

Gov. Rick Scott will appoint an interim sheriff to finish the remainder of Coats' term, which ends in January 2013.

Coats announced his retirement to his executive staff earlier today. He said he was working through a sudden and difficult health concern. 

“Life can change in an instant, and we have decided to redirect our energies to our new challenge. I want to be there for Cat,” Coats said.

Coats has served in law enforcement for 41 years. In May, he announced he would not run for re-election and would support Chief Deputy Bob Gualtieri’s campaign.

Since 1971, Coats, 67, has served in all levels of command. He was first elected sheriff in 2004.

Coats said he will miss the partnerships he has developed in the community and the friendships within his department. He looks forward to his life in retirement but plans to continue to be involved in the community.

For now, his concern is his wife's recovery. 

“You don’t know how serious it is until it affects you,” Coats said. “Being sheriff is a full-time job. It requires a lot of time and energy, and I prefer to dedicate that energy and time to my wife and family.”