Chatham Sheriff John Wilcher hospitalized in 'critical condition,' his office says

Chatham County Sheriff John Wilcher has been hospitalized and is in “critical condition” with an unspecified condition, his office said Sunday. 

“We understand that this news might come as a surprise and that many of you may have questions or concerns,” the Chatham County Sheriff’s Office said in a Facebook post Sunday. “We do not have further details to share at this time. We will provide updates as more information becomes available. In the meantime, we ask that you respect Sheriff Wilcher’s family’s privacy during this time.” 

Wilcher started his career with the sheriff's office in 1974 at the old Chatham County Jail on Habersham Street in downtown Savannah. In 2014, he retired at the rank of colonel and in April 2016, won a special election to replace the late Sheriff Al St. Lawrence.  

He was re-elected in 2016 and 2020, when he ran unopposed. 

Wilcher faces Democrat Richard Coleman in the November general election. 

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.