Lillywhite sworn in as sheriff

Mark Lillywhite was sworn in Tuesday as St. Joseph County sheriff.

During a ceremony at the county courthouse, county clerk Lindsay Oswald swore in Lillywhite, who will complete the remaining 11 months of Brad Balk’s four-year term. Balk announced in November his retirement effective Jan. 31.

Lillywhite, 44, said he appreciates the opportunity to complete Balk’s term and plans to seek the post in this year’s general election.

In addition, Lillywhite announced that the new administration will be comprised of Jason Bingaman as undersheriff, T.J. Baker as road patrol captain and Erin Goff as emergency services director. Kitty Buchner will continue to serve as jail administrator.

Lillywhite, a Three Rivers High School graduate, is a Three Rivers resident who has served as undersheriff the past 11 years.