Two senior deputies retire for other jobs citing financial issues, health insurance

Branch County — Two veteran Branch County Sheriff’s Deputies are soon retiring for new jobs after more than 25 years each.

Sergeant Frank Baker will become Bronson’s Deputy Police Chief on February 1st.

Road Patrol Lieutenant Steve McManamy retired on November 23 after serving 28 years to become a Coldwater Law Enforcement Officer.

Both men said the move made sense, financially. Both cited the high cost of county health insurance as a motivation.

Barker was promoted to Sergeant in December 2020. At Bronson, he retires as Deputy Chief Brad McConn and enters the private sector.

Barker said his move was “a career opportunity, an opportunity to move forward. It’s just another way to take the next step.”