Jeff Richards is a Law Enforcement veteran, with more than 30 years of service.  He began his Law Enforcement career as a Reserve/Part-time Deputy with the Neosho County (KS) Sheriff’s Office.  He then served as a Law Enforcement Supervisor in the United States Air Force, Prior to joining the Overland Park (KS) Police Department.  Jeff has been serving as the Sheriff of Franklin County (KS) since April 2013. 

During his law enforcement career Sheriff Richards has served as a Corrections Officer, Patrol Officer, Traffic Officer, motorcycle officer, SWAT member and Team Leader, Field Training Officer, Shift Supervisor, Detective, and now County Sheriff.

Sheriff Richards is a Certified Public Manager and a Certified Homeland Protection Professional.  He has completed many professional development courses to include; the National Sheriff’s Institute, Rural Executive Management Institute, Kansas Law Enforcement Leadership Academy Command School, and DHS Leadership Academy.

Sheriff Richards has served his community as a County Planning Commissioner, elected City Commissioner and as a member of various service organizations.  He has provided leadership as a member of the Kansas Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI), Kansas Sexual Assault Response Advisory Committee (KSARAC), Kansas Human Trafficking Advisory Board, Kansas Law Enforcement Accreditation Council, National Sheriff’s Association Border Security and Homeland Security committees, and on the Board of Governors for Small and Rural Law Enforcement Executives Association. 

Jeff serves as an Elder at Ottawa Community Church.  He and his Wife, Michelle, are the proud parents of 3 sons and 1 daughter.