Butler County Sheriff Mike Slupe is temporarily off work due to a back injury.

Slupe today sent an email to all elected county officials and department heads asking that business related to his department be forwarded to Chief Deputy Mark Peffer.

“I will still get my emails, but (Peffer) will have the helm, so to speak, until I am able to return,” the email states.

Slupe could not be reached for comment, but sources at the courthouse say the absence is temporary and prompted by a back injury.

On behalf of the Butler County Commissioners board chairman Leslie Osche released this written statement tonight, “The commissioners extend our best wishes to the sheriff for speedy healing, and we are confident that Chief Pfeffer will carry on duties as needed in his absence.”

Butler Eagle's photo.