Chief Deputy James G. Zusack

Zusack is a 1987 graduate of St. Clairsville High School. On January 6th 1991, he obtained an Associate’s Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Akron. While attending college in Akron, Sheriff Tom McCort appointed him as a reserve Deputy with the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office on March 21st 1989. Zusack worked two years through a Summer Help program, which was developed by the Belmont County Commissioners, at the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office.

Zusack attended the Ohio Peace Officer’s Training Academy at Jefferson Technical College and graduated in May of 1991. Sheriff Tom McCort hired Zusack as a full time Jail Deputy on November 17, 1991. After working five years in the jail, Zusack accepted a Road Patrol position. On October 21st, 2001, Sheriff McCort promoted Zusack to Road Patrol Sergeant.

In October of 2009 Zusack accepted a new position as the S.O.R.N. / Training Officer under the direction of Sheriff Fred Thompson. His responsibilities were tracking registered sex offenders residing in Belmont County and coordinating training of all staff.

Sheriff David M. Lucas came into office on January 1st, 2013. After the retirement of Chief Bill Artrip, Sheriff David M. Lucas offered the position of Chief Deputy to Zusack. Chief James G. Zusack accepted and started his new duties on March 1st, 2014.

Chief Zusack was a 17 year member of the Belmont County Special Operations Branch which was developed by Sheriff David M. Lucas. As a member of this branch Zusack received extensive training in special weapons and tactics. Chief Zusack implemented the Project Lifesaver program which is still provided by the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office. Zusack has also been involved with the Safety Camp for Kids sponsored by Belmont Community Hospital in Bellaire, a division of Wheeling Hospital, for four years.

Chief Zusack is determined to work with Sheriff David M. Lucas to provide the citizens of Belmont County with quality service and protection.