Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis Discusses Senior Picnic, Public Safety, and Political Speculation

From community cookouts to immigration enforcement and a potential gubernatorial bid, Sheriff Evangelidis reflects on public service and the road ahead.

By Hank Stolz | Radio Worcester

(Photo-worcestercountysheriff.com)

WORCESTER, MASS- In a wide-ranging interview on Radio Worcester’s Talk of the Commonwealth, Worcester County Sheriff Lew Evangelidis spoke with host Hank Stolz about community outreach, public safety, and political speculation regarding a possible run for governor.

The conversation opened on a lighter note, as Evangelidis promoted the Sheriff’s Annual Senior Picnic, a free event for older adults in Worcester County. Scheduled for Saturday, June 7 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at SAC Park in Shrewsbury, the picnic has been a longstanding tradition. This year, it will once again feature a drive-through format, where attendees receive barbecue lunches, goodie bags, live music, and access to local service vendors.

“It’s a fun day,” Evangelidis said. “We usually have over 1,000 people. We register attendees in time slots to keep it smooth. It’s a celebration of our seniors and a way to show appreciation.”

For those interested in attending, registration is available by emailing Nydia@worcestercountysheriff.org or calling 508-796-2638.

The discussion then turned to political rumors that Evangelidis might seek the Republican nomination for governor. While flattered by the grassroots “Draft Sheriff Lew” efforts, Evangelidis said he has not made any formal decision, emphasizing his commitment to his current role.

“I love being Sheriff,” he said. “But I’ve always said, if the right opportunity at the right time comes along, I’d consider it.”

He noted the widespread response from across the political spectrum after media reports surfaced about the draft effort, including unexpected support from many Democrats who expressed dissatisfaction with Governor Maura Healey’s handling of the ongoing migrant crisis.

Evangelidis was critical of both federal and state immigration policies, especially the $3 billion spent by Massachusetts on migrant housing and services since Governor Healey took office. “I don’t blame people for coming here,” he said, referencing his own visits to Central American countries. “I blame policymakers for creating unsustainable systems.”

As Sheriff, Evangelidis described the tangible effects of the migrant influx on public safety, including a tripling in recent years of individuals held on ICE detainers at the county jail. He emphasized his duty to uphold public safety by cooperating with federal officials to remove serious offenders.

“We’re not talking about minor violations,” Evangelidis said. “We’re talking about people charged with attempted murder, drug trafficking, weapons charges.”

He also addressed a recent controversy surrounding an ICE arrest in Worcester, which sparked protests and allegations of misconduct. While declining to comment directly on the incident due to incomplete information, Evangelidis acknowledged the divisive nature of immigration enforcement.

“This is a country deeply divided on the issue,” he said. “There’s high emotion on both sides. But I believe in cooperation with federal authorities to ensure public safety, especially when dealing with serious offenders.”

As for his political future, Evangelidis said he remains undecided but is watching the gubernatorial race closely.

“I’m keeping my options open,” he said. “I want to see the kind of leadership that puts Massachusetts first. If that person doesn’t emerge, then I’ll reassess.”

Until then, the Sheriff remains focused on his duties and community engagement, starting with a picnic that’s about more than just barbecue.

“It’s a moment of joy, connection, and appreciation,” he said. “And that’s something we all need a little more of.”