SOUTHWEST RANCHES, Fla. – Broward County Sheriff Scott Israel handily defeated political newcomer Santiago Vazquez Jr. to reclaim his position as the county's top law enforcement officer.
Israel won Tuesday in a landslide. The Democrat received 72 percent of the vote to Vazquez's 27 percent.
"I think it's a validation of what we've done," Israel told Local 10 News.
His Republican challenger was a former sergeant with the Broward Sheriff's Office.
Israel said he believes the outcome is a testament to the respect between residents and his deputies.
"Thank you for the win," Israel said.
Miami Heat star Udonis Haslem was among those in attendance at the sheriff's private victory party in Southwest Ranches.