Sheriff Larry Dean expects return within weeks after heart surgery

Dean says his doctor could release him in about two weeks and he expects to return to work “full swing.”

DUBLIN, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Laurens County Sheriff Larry Dean says he is recovering well after undergoing open-heart surgery and expects to return to work within weeks.

Dean provided the health update in a video posted to Facebook Wednesday.

“I’ve been under the weather for a few days now,” Dean said. “Had a little open heart surgery, but the doctor’s telling me in about two more weeks he’ll be able to release me and I’ll be back full swing. Matter of fact, I’m feeling better than I did before I went in for surgery.”

Dean didn’t say when the surgery happened or provide additional details about the procedure.

The sheriff thanked Laurens County residents who have contacted him with prayers, calls and messages.

He also thanked his chief deputy, majors, captains, deputies and office staff for continuing the sheriff’s office’s work during his recovery.

“Just want everybody to know that I am doing well physically and mentally and looking forward to getting back to the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office where I can do my job as sheriff of Laurens County,” Dean said.

Dean was first elected Laurens County sheriff in 2016. Voters elected him to a third term in November 2024.