Sheriff Jim Ruth was among those who took their oaths of office for the Bradley County Sheriff’s Office Tuesday evening.
“It’s an honor and privilege to be serving as your next sheriff,” Ruth told his deputies and guests who attended the ceremony held at Cloverleaf Baptist Church.
“We will keep the peace and pursue the calling we all hold dear,” Ruth said.
The sanctuary was packed with deputies, court officers and members of their families as well as a few elected officials and the three judges who swore in the new administration.
“We will have to give respect to earn respect,” said Ruth, conveying the fact that all people should be respected.
“One of my new policies is that we will be setting a new standard for courtesy,” he said.
The sheriff told the audience he wants the department to be focused and all involved headed in the same direction.
Ruth mentioned the fact of the $600,000 budget cut from the sheriff’s office.
“We will have to work efficiently. Do your best,” said Ruth.
He also said a unified department will be proactive in fighting crime.
“The oath and the badge of this office I take seriously and humbly,” said Ruth.
Judges Larry Puckett, Mike Sharp and Amy Reedy administered the oaths of office to the various deputies and the new sheriff and command staff, as well as reserve and corrections officers.
Phil Taylor, director of the Missions Baptist Association told the audience and deputies, “You will be needed.”
“What will protect us is a praying people,” said Taylor referring to the community and outlook for the future of Bradley County and the sheriff’s office.
Others taking part in the ceremony were Dr. Oliver McMahan and Doug Bird, who served as master of ceremony.
