OPD Chief John Mina considers run for Orange County sheriff

ORLANDO, Fla. — Orlando police Chief John Mina told Channel 9's Shannon Butler that he would seriously consider a run for Orange County sheriff if Jerry Demings decides to run for Orange County mayor.

Eyewitness News reported last month that Demings was considering a run for mayor in 2020.

Demings is currently in his third term as sheriff.

Mina has been with the Orlando Police Department for more than 25 years; a chief for three years.

In a statement Tuesday Mina told Eyewitness News, "If Sheriff Demings were to vacate his position and seek another elected office, I will give serious consideration to running for sheriff of Orange County.”

"After 26 years at OPD, I still have a strong desire to serve. I look forward to exploring this opportunity and would bring experience, and some of the great initiatives, community engagement efforts and crime fighting measures that have been so successful in the city of Orlando to all of Orange County."

Mina is popular with police and with the public. He's built relationships in the black community and with the media.

An exit after three years is not unusual for police chiefs in Orlando.

Paul Rooney left after three years. Val Demings left before her four year mark.

If Mina leaves, it would be up to city leaders to decide who fills his spot.

Cox Media Group