Former Limestone County Sheriff Mike Blakely will report to Franklin County Jail Friday to begin his three-year sentence for theft and ethics charges. He had been out of jail on an appelate bond.

The former sheriff’s most recent appeal was turned down this month but Blakely said he’s still fighting.

In a message posted on social media, Blakely wrote, “I’m still in the fight of my life. It seems like I’m in a race with no finish line, but I am humbled beyond anyone’s imagination for the outpouring of support and kindness shown by so many friends and supporters.”

He has also maintained throughout the whole case that he is innocent.

“Quite honestly, I wouldn’t be appealing this case if I felt like I was guilty, and everything was hunky-dory in my trial,” he said.

Blakely served as sheriff from 1983-2019.

Austen Shipley is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News.