Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones released a statement Tuesday night following his defeat in the race for sheriff, thanking the community and reflecting on his years of service.

“It has been an honor and extreme privilege to serve the citizens of Lee County as their Sheriff,” Jones said.

Jones thanked voters for allowing him to serve in a role he said he loved because it gave him “the chance to help people,” which he described as his “primary principle.”

The longtime sheriff also expressed gratitude to supporters and campaign workers who stood behind his reelection effort.

“My sincere thanks and gratitude go to everyone who worked so hard to support and promote our campaign,” Jones said. “I will forever be in your debt.”

According to unofficial election results, challenger Cam Hunt defeated Jones in the race for Lee County sheriff.

Despite the loss, Jones said he respects the outcome of the election and remains thankful for the opportunity to serve the county through the years.

“Although we were not successful, I respect the decision of the voters and am thankful for the opportunity to have served through the years with the goal of making Lee County a safer place to live, work and enjoy for our citizens,” he said.

Jones ended his statement by thanking the people he has worked alongside during his time in office.

“My eternal thanks are to those I was fortunate to work beside for so many years,” Jones said. “All of you are the best of the best. God speed.”

Jones remains sheriff of the county until January 2027.