WAUKESHA COUNTY, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Waukesha County Sheriff Eric Severson announced Wednesday that he will not seek reelection at the end of his term and will retire after more than 40 years in Waukesha County law enforcement.

In a statement released Wednesday, Jan. 7, the sheriff wrote, in part:

"Throughout my career, I've worked to lead with integrity, accountability, and trust. The accomplishments I am most proud of have been protecting our community, earning public confidence, and helping prepare the next generation of leaders to carry the mission forward. Along the way, I've faced difficult decisions, and I made them with the community's safety in mind, even when doing so came at a personal cost. Through it all, Waukesha County has supported me, and I will be grateful for the rest of my life. 

The greatest honor of my career has been standing alongside the men and women who put their lives on the line to protect our community. They work through holidays and overnight shifts, in every kind of weather, and under adversity that most people could never imagine. I have watched them do it with unfailing courage, professionalism, and compassion, and I am proud to call them my professional family."

Sheriff Severson went on to say he believes now is the right time for new leadership to step forward.

He will continue to serve through the remainder of his term.