Onondaga County’s Deputy Sheriff Benevolent Association (DSBA) announced a decisive vote of no‑confidence in Sheriff Tobias Shelley’s custody leadership. In a detailed Facebook post, the union reported that over 93% of its members lack confidence in the sheriff’s ability to manage the custody department.

Union’s concerns

The DSBA said the vote reflects deep frustration over low staffing levels, frequent facility lockdowns and a noticeable decline in morale among custody staff. Since January 1, 2023, the union has filed 50 grievances against Sheriff Shelley, alleging failures in leadership and accountability.

Sheriff’s campaign pushes back

A spokesperson for the Campaign of Toby Shelley for Sheriff dismissed the union’s move as politically motivated. The spokesperson noted that the union’s president entered the political arena two weeks before the upcoming election and suggested the timing was intended to benefit Shelley’s opponent, former Syracuse police officer and former Madison County undersheriff R.J. Lenhart.

“This is 100% political and indicative of a union wanting control of a sheriff and doesn’t with Sheriff Shelley, but does with RJ Lenhart,” the campaign representative told CNY Central.

Election context

Sheriff Shelley, a Democrat, is seeking reelection in the 2026 midterm election on Nov. 3. He will face Republican challenger R.J. Lenhart, who has positioned himself as a law‑and‑order alternative.

What this means for the custody department

The no‑confidence vote is a formal declaration of dissatisfaction and is typically reserved for extreme cases of discontent. While the union’s statement emphasizes a breakdown in the relationship between the administration and custody staff, the sheriff’s campaign argues the move is an attempt to sway voters ahead of the election.

County officials have not yet issued a formal response to the union’s allegations. The Onondaga County Board of Supervisors is expected to review the grievances as part of its oversight responsibilities.

Community impact

Residents of Syracuse and the broader Onondaga County rely on the custody department to maintain safety and security within the county jail. Any prolonged staffing or morale issues could affect the department’s ability to operate efficiently.

Both sides agree that the upcoming election will be a critical moment for the sheriff’s office, with the union’s vote likely to become a talking point in campaign debates.

Original reporting: CNY Central WSTM (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.