Chief Deputy Al Hayden has been with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office since 1972. He is a native Buckeye and began his career in law enforcement with the United States Army. He served as a Military Police Officer from 1968 to 1971. He served at numerous duty stations within the United States and also in the Republic of South Korea in 1969 and 1970. 

Hayden joined the Sheriff’s Office as a deputy and has served as a sergeant, lieutenant and captain. As a captain, Hayden was responsible for supervision of all major felony investigations within the office. Hayden is a graduate of the American Institute of Polygraph Technology and Applied Psychology and has provided invaluable information and guidance on multiple major investigations. Hayden received Special Weapons and Tactics training from the FBI at Camp Perry, Ohio. He completed classes at Northwestern University in Staff and Command Functions. He has also completed training in numerous other law enforcement related training areas and is a former instructor in the Ohio Peace Officer Basic Training Program.

Hayden is a recipient of the office Purple Heart Award for wounds received in the line of duty. While chasing a burglary suspect in the late night hours, Hayden rounded the corner of a house where the suspect lay in wait. The suspect struck Hayden across the face with a tire iron. While seriously injured with broken facial bones and other injuries,  Hayden affected the arrest, received treatment at the emergency room and returned to duty to finish his shift. His dedication to complete the mission while jeopardizing his own safety exemplifies the standard with which we all strive. 

Hayden is also the recipient of several other officer awards, including a three time Officer of the Year Award.

Hayden is a member of the Buckeye State Sheriff's Association, the National Sheriff's Association, THe Fraternal Order of Police, Veterans of Foreign Wars, The American Legion, and The Moose Lodge.

Cheif Hayden is a resident of Pleasant Township and is married to the former Tamara Weber and has three sons. Together they enjoy fishing, boating, gardening and time with their three horses.