The union representing deputies in the Ontario County Sheriff's Office is calling for the resignation of Sheriff Kevin Henderson. This development follows news earlier this month of an ongoing sexual harassment investigation reportedly connected to the sheriff.

In a news release on Tuesday, the Police Benevolent Association (PBA) alleged the toxic culture the sheriff created, coupled with the sexual harassment investigation, makes it impossible for him to lead the office going forward. The PBA says under his leadership 17 deputies have left the office since 2019, leaving only 26 road patrol deputies for a total of 45 positions. According to the PBA, three more deputies are leaving in the next month.  

Tuesday's statement from the union said in part:

"Most of the deputies who have transferred were born and raised in this county and had a strong desire to give back to their community by becoming public servants. The culture created in this agency caused them to look elsewhere to serve.  The experience and skill sets of these officers cannot be easily replaced. The deputies left are required to fill the shortfall in staffing to maintain minimum numbers to continue to provide public safety, being mandated for additional shifts several times a week. Despite these conditions, these deputies have continued to serve the community in a professional manner and will continue to do so."

The Ontario County Board of Supervisors launched an investigation into sexual harassment and other complaints against the sheriff earlier this month. The deputy sheriff has since resigned. Henderson, in a previous statement, has denied any wrongdoing saying he welcomes the findings of the investigation.