Grady County Sheriff Kieran McMullen said Monday it is time to “move on.”

McMullen announced to his staff shortly after noon Monday that he was leaving his position today.

“I’m retiring after nine years with the department and I wish everybody the best,” said McMullen. “I intend to train my new draft horses, fix some fences and move on.”

Tuesday, Sept. 30 marks the exact date McMullen joined the department nine years ago. He was appointed sheriff in 2003 and was re-elected in 2004.

“It seemed like an appropriate time to retire,” said McMullen, who says he made the decision to retire on Friday. “I’ll be in tomorrow (Tuesday) to grab my stuff.”

McMullen said he called his friend at the Daily Oklahoman, George Plummer at Kool 105 radio station and set up an interview with a tv station to announce his plans.

“I decided Friday to do it, I had a good, restful weekend, and decided it’s time to play with the horses and the grandkids,” he said.

McMullen is awaiting trial on charges relating to the 2006 illegal gambling raid on the Elks Lodge, although indications are he will agree to a plea deal at hearing on Friday,