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MARTINSVILLE, Va. — A new sheriff is now leading the Martinsville Sheriff’s Office following the sudden death of longtime Sheriff Steve Draper.
On Monday morning, August 31, 2026, Michael Law was appointed Sheriff of the City of Martinsville by judges of the 21st Judicial Circuit.
Law brings 19 years of experience with the Martinsville Sheriff’s Office to the position and will serve as sheriff until voters have an opportunity to choose someone to complete the remainder of the current term.
The appointment comes as deputies, staff and the Martinsville-Henry County community continue to mourn Draper, whose unexpected death prompted an outpouring of grief and support throughout the area.
State law requires a locality to appoint a sheriff following a vacancy until a special election can be held.
For Law, taking over the department is an emotional moment — particularly because of his longtime relationship with Draper.
“It is a bittersweet moment for me as I’ve always pictured this moment to take place with Sheriff Draper by my side,” Law said.
Law said he intends to continue the work Draper established during his tenure.
“However, I look forward to building on the strong foundation he laid ahead of us, serving with integrity, professionalism, and dedication,” Law said.
Special Election Set for 2027
Martinsville voters will eventually have the final say on who serves the remainder of the current sheriff's term.
A special election is scheduled for November 2, 2027, when voters will elect a sheriff to serve the remainder of the current term.
For now, Law assumes leadership of an office dealing with the loss of a sheriff who spent decades serving Martinsville — while stepping into a position he once envisioned filling with Draper still standing beside him.
It is a new chapter for the Martinsville Sheriff’s Office, but one beginning under the shadow of a major loss.
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