Frank Provenzano, left, withstood a formidable challenge from retired Franklin Township Police Lt. Darrin Russo to win his sixth term.
SOMERSET -- In a contentious sheriff's race, Republican incumbent Frank Provenzano held off Democratic challenger Darrin Russo, a former Franklin Township Police Lt., by just over 1,400 votes in Tuesday's election.
Provenzano, who won his sixth term, withstood allegations from Russo that included the Democrat calling for an investigation into overtime practices in the sheriff's department and Provenzano's travel expenses.
Provenzano, a former Bridgewater police officer who has been sheriff since 2002, received 72,906 votes. Russo, who retired in June, finished with 71,500 votes.
Sheriff's race was an antagonistic battle
In the Board of Chosen Freeholders race, Republican incumbent Patricia "Pat" Walsh turned back Democrat Doug Singleterry, winning by a margin of 74,301 votes to 67,824.
Russo, who was endorsed by the state's Policemen's Benevolent Association and its 33,000 members, accused the sheriff of "the possible payment of overtime wages to officers for the sole purpose of inducing them to attend a reception in honor of former Somerset County Prosecutor Geoffrey Soriano" on March 4.
Russo called for the state Office of the Attorney General to investigate the overtime as well as Provenzano's use a department vehicle to travel to his shore house.
Provenzano was endorsed by more than 80 current and former county law enforcement officials.
Dave Hutchinson may be reached at dhutchinson@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @DHutch_SL. Find NJ.com on Facebook.