Former Ontario County Sheriff Philip Povero is returning to the role temporarily. On Monday, Ontario County Judge Brian Dennis appointed Povero to serve as interim sheriff through Dec. 31, 2022.

Povero was sworn in during a ceremony Monday afternoon at the Ontario County Clerk's Office on Ontario Street.

“We appreciate Sheriff Povero’s willingness to come back from retirement to help Ontario County guide the sheriff’s office through this transition period until the next elected sheriff takes office in January of 2023," said Board of Supervisors Chairman Jack Marren. "Phil’s tremendous experience with the office as well as with the Board of Supervisors is exactly what the county needs to keep making positive changes and moving the office forward.”

“The past several years have been incredibly challenging for the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office and for law enforcement men and women across the state and country," said County Administrator Chris DeBolt. "I am thankful that Sheriff Povero has agreed to come back and help serve the people of Ontario County until a new sheriff is elected. I look forward to working closely with him moving forward to continue the positive strides the office has taken in recent months."

“On behalf of Ontario County, the Board of Supervisors and the employees of the sheriff’s office, I would like to extend our sincere and heartfelt appreciation to Ontario County Judge Brian Dennis," Marren said. "While the statute did not require it, Judge Dennis conferred with the county and the sheriff’s office in vetting potential candidates for the role of interim sheriff. Judge Dennis was willing to work with the parties involved to select an interim sheriff that can work with the county and the office to continue making progress for the betterment of our community and the organization."

Povero will be taking over the position for Kevin Henderson, who resigned at the end of September after facing multiple allegations of sexual harassment.

Currently, Chief Deputy Sheriff John Falbo is overseeing the department.

Povero served as the sheriff before Henderson for 28 years and retired in in 2018.