The Upshur County Sheriff chose an officer who has worked with the sheriff’s department for 23 years to become his chief deputy.

The Upshur County Commission joined the sheriff’s department in the circuit courtroom on Dec. 11 to swear in Theron Caynor as the new chief deputy for the Upshur County Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff Mike Coffman said Caynor has worked his way through the ranks and has been known to step in when Coffman was unavailable.

“We’re here today because I made the decision to appoint Theron Caynor as chief deputy. He was a sergeant, then a lieutenant and now chief deputy,” Coffman said. “He started here 23 years ago. I’ve known Theron for years, and he’s a solid, very good officer.”

Caynor has the experience needed to fill the role, Coffman said,

“I’ve watched him throughout the years — as we all have,” the sheriff said. “We’ve all changed and grown into the positions that we’re in. Whenever I have any kind of personnel matter or anything going on,  like when I went to the FBI National Academy in 2023, Theron steps up.”

Coffman said he sees Caynor as a leader.

“He was a real leader. I didn’t have to worry about anything. He wasn’t calling me all the time — we talked almost daily, and he kept me up on things,” Coffman said. “Theron is very capable when I put my full trust in him, and I think that is very important for the county.”

Upshur County Commissioner Sam Nolte said Coffman made a wise decision.

“I think you’re making a great decision. Theron has always been very solid; he doesn’t get overly emotional,” Nolte said. “I’ve known him myself for a long time, and I think you have made a wonderful decision — congratulations.”