EASTON, Pa. — Northampton County officials appointed a new sheriff Wednesday: Christopher Zieger, formerly the department’s second-in-command.
During his tenure as the county’s chief deputy sheriff, Zieger oversaw the department’s Protective Services Division and crisis negotiation team.
He also coordinated planning for several high-profile trials.
A longtime Lehigh Valley resident, Zieger graduated from Muhlenberg College before attending the Pennsylvania Deputy Sheriff’s Academy.
In all, he has worked in the Northampton County Sheriff’s Department for 30 years.
“Sheriff Zieger’s extensive experience, deep institutional knowledge, and strong leadership make him exceptionally well-suited for this role.”
Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure in a statement
Zieger has been Northampton County’s acting sheriff since his predecessor, Richard Johnston, retired in August.
“Sheriff Zieger’s extensive experience, deep institutional knowledge, and strong leadership make him exceptionally well-suited for this role,” Northampton County Executive Lamont McClure wrote in a statement released Wednesday.
McClure appointed Ziegler to the post.
“He has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to public service, and we are confident he will continue to lead the Sheriff’s Department with professionalism, integrity and dedication to the safety of our residents,” McClure said.
As sheriff, Zieger is charged with securing Northampton County’s courthouse and other county buildings, overseeing transport of prisoners, apprehending fugitives, and administering foreclosure sales of repossessed properties, among other responsibilities.