A routine, preventive check-up led to a three-hour surgery last Thursday for Platte County Sheriff Richard “Dick” Anderson.

During an exam on Wednesday, Anderson learned from his physician that he was in need of double-bypass heart surgery.

Anderson underwent the three-hour surgery at Saint Luke’s Hospital on the Plaza in Kansas City the following day. He hadn't suffered from any kind of heart ailment.

According to designated acting Sheriff Paul Carrill, Anderson was expected to be released from the hospital on Monday of this week.

“He’s doing very well and is recuperating faster than the doctors expected,” said Carrill.

Carrill, who is a captain for the sheriff’s department, will remain in charge for the length of Anderson’s absence.

“If there are any inquiries regarding Sheriff Anderson, citizens can contact me at the sheriff’s department,” said Carrill.

Anderson and his wife, Wanda, reside in northern Platte County. He was first elected sheriff in 1996, and was reelected in 2000 and in 2004.