Former Geneva Police Chief Michael Passalacqua has announced his candidacy for Seneca County sheriff.
The Waterloo resident announced his campaign Tuesday, becoming the second person to publicly enter the race to succeed longtime Sheriff Tim Thompson, who retired earlier this month after a 27-year career with the Sheriff’s Office.
Following Thompson’s retirement, Undersheriff Melinda Marquart is serving as acting sheriff until a successor is chosen. A special election is expected to be held this fall to fill the remainder of Thompson’s term. Passalacqua joins Kristin Fleming in the race for sheriff, who announced her candidacy last week after a 32-year career with the New York State Police.
Passalacqua has more than two decades of law enforcement experience. A native of Geneva and Phelps, he attended St. Stephen’s School, DeSales High School and Finger Lakes Community College before completing the Police Academy.
He joined the Geneva Police Department and rose through the ranks, earning promotions to sergeant in 2011 and lieutenant in 2017. He was appointed chief of police in July 2018.
Passalacqua retired from the department in June 2023 but returned in April 2024 to serve as interim police chief.
In announcing his campaign, Passalacqua said his top priority would be ensuring a safe and secure community for children, residents and visitors. He said he wants to lead a Sheriff’s Office rooted in transparency, accountability and integrity.
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