Glenda Martens to retire as Sedgwick County corrections director in April

Sedgwick County Corrections Director Glenda Martens will retire on April 2, according to a county release.

Her retirement comes amid heightened scrutiny of the corrections department after the in-custody death of Cedric Lofton, who was physically restrained for nearly 45 minutes by county corrections officers in September.

At a press conference the same day District Attorney Marc Bennett announced no criminal charges would be filed, Martens called Lofton’s death a tragedy but said “employees acted well within the policy and the requirements of that policy” when they restrained the teen.

In the release, Martens said she has been planning her retirement for over a year.

“It has been a tremendous honor, passion and labor of love to serve the youth, adults and the community in my capacity with Sedgwick County [for] over 18 years.” Martens said.

Martens, who has served as director since 2016, previously managed the now-defunct Judge Riddel Boys Ranch from 2004-2014.

Sedgwick County Manager Tom Stolz called Martens a “true professional and public servant.”

Martens’ last day on the job will be March 11. Deputy Corrections Director Chris Morales will serve as interim director.