[1] In 1852 Thomas was appointed Norfolk County sheriff by Massachusetts governor George S. Boutwell.
The next year Thomas was removed from office for political reasons by Boutwell's successor John H. Clifford[1] In 1856 the state law was changed and the office of sheriff became an elected, rather than appointed position, Thomas received the nominations of both the American and Republican parties.
[1] Thomas was elected by a plurality of three thousand, and a majority of twenty five hundred votes over the Democratic and (Fillmore) American party candidate Edward Potter.
[1] Thomas continued in office until January 1, 1878, winning each triennial election until he declined to run again due to failing health.
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