WHEELING — Come January there will be a new sheriff in Ohio County towns, and he will be Nelson Croft.

The Republican Croft captured 9,531 votes and a new job while defeating Democrat John Haglock, who received 8,526 votes in Tuesday’s general election.

Croft, 53, currently serves as chief deputy in Ohio County, and has more than 30 years experience in law enforcement.

He and a group of supporters consisting of about 10 co-workers, friends and family members cast a strong presence in the Ohio County Commission office Tuesday night as they awaited final results.

“I thank the citizens of Ohio County for putting their faith and trust in me,” Croft said.