Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker told a room full of Merrimack Valley law enforcement leaders Saturday that he plans to retire after one more term in office.

Tucker, a Democrat running unopposed for his second term in the Nov. 3 general election, made the announcement at the Merrimack Valley Chamber of Commerce's annual Public Safety Breakfast. The event was held at Merrimack Valley Golf Club on Friday, Oct. 2, as first reported by WHAV.

Andover Police Chief Patrick Keefe and Acting North Andover Police Chief Stephen Diminico were among the officials who spoke at the breakfast.

"I've guaranteed to her that will be it. So, if you know anybody who wants to run four years from now, open seat," Tucker said, referring to a promise he made to his wife.

Tucker was first elected to the county's top law enforcement post in November 2022. Before that, he spent 32 years with the Salem Police Department and served as a state representative from 2014 to 2022, according to a Swampscott Tides profile. He told the breakfast crowd he is wrapping up his fourth year as DA and will serve one more four-year term before stepping down.

The announcement means the Essex County DA's seat, which covers 34 cities and towns including Andover and North Andover, will be an open race after Tucker's second term ends.

Tucker used the breakfast to reflect on how his approach to prosecution has shifted. He said he now believes treatment is almost always better than punishment, particularly for people in recovery.

Haverhill Police Chief Wayne J. Tracy also addressed the gathering, telling the audience that when residents feel safe, they are more willing to open businesses, invest in property and raise families in their communities.

Also attending were Haverhill Mayor Melinda E. Barrett, Lawrence Police Chief Maurice Aguiler and James "Jamie" Moore, Methuen's recently appointed acting chief. Moore was making his first appearance at the annual event.

Tucker's predecessor, John Blodgett, also chose not to seek re-election. That decision prompted Tucker to give up his state House seat and run for the DA position, according to the Swampscott Tides.

Tucker faces no challenger in the Nov. 3 general election.