TYLER, TX (KETK) - — On Monday, November 28, 2011, Rusk County Sheriff Danny R. Pirtle was evaluated by his physicians and it has been determined he will require additional surgery due to the fact the wiring of the sternum has shifted. The surgeon further advised he will be incapacitated for additional six weeks or longer.

Back in early November, Sheriff Pirtle had bypass surgery and although the surgery was successful the physicians advised him to enter in the rehab program to assist him in his recovery. During rehab the complications with the sternum was discovered.

Upon receiving this information Sheriff Pirtle, his wife and family decided it was in his best interest to complete his term as Rusk County Sheriff but he will not be seeking re-election in 2012. With early voting starting in February, he would not have sufficient time to prepare for the upcoming election.

Sheriff Pirtle’s wife, Dolly, would like to say how thankful she is for all the prayers, phone calls, cards and support they have received from the citizens of Rusk County. She added, it was very comforting to see how caring people have been.

Sheriff Pirtle stated, this was a very difficult decision and he did not make it lightly. He feels very blessed to serve the citizens of Rusk County. He did his level best to make the Rusk County Sheriff’s Office professional, respectable and accountable. He appreciates all the employees for being professional and doing an outstanding job. He is asking for the continued prayers and support during his upcoming surgery and recovery.
 

Information from Rusk County Sheriff's Office