Training room packed with officers, public for ceremony

COLUMBUS — Monday was a new day for Polk County, as newly elected Sheriff Tim Wright was sworn into office.

Officers were also sworn in during a ceremony Monday morning in the Donald J. Hill Training room at the new law enforcement center in Columbus.

The Rev. Chris Osborne led a prayer, and Superior Court Judge Peter Knight conducted the swearing-in ceremonies for both Wright and officers. Wright’s sons, John and Henry, held the Bible and pinned on Wright’s new badge.

“I hope a lot of people will listen to this oath because that oath right there means a lot to me,” Wright said. “It strikes my heart. I promise you one thing, I’m going to work my tail off to make this the best place to work as it can be and for the citizens.”

Wright said he is going to do the best job he can to protect, to maintain integrity, accountability and all the things he talked about during his campaign.

He spoke of former Sheriff Donald Hill, who Wright succeeds. Hill (D) was sheriff for 10 years and chose not to seek re-election this year.

Wright said he has always loved Hill and has known him since he was a kid.

“He’s been nothing but good to me throughout this transition,” Wright said of Hill. “I want to thank him for making it as smooth as possible. I want to thank the citizens for voting for me. They entrusted me into this position right here and as I said, I plan on doing the best job I can possibly do for the citizens.”

Wright said he wants the office to be transparent, and citizen involvement will be encouraged.

“Any time anybody needs anything, I will be open to hear your concerns or anything that needs to be addressed,” Wright said.

The new sheriff got emotional when addressing his family, which includes his two sons and wife, Brandy, who were all in attendance Monday.

“My kids have not seen me a lot because of my sacrifice,” Wright said. “They’ve sacrificed as well. I want to sincerely apologize for that. Things will get better, I promise.”

Wright ended his speech by saying he wants the sheriff’s office to be a better place for the citizens and the community.

“We need to figure out why we are doing this job and who we are here to protect,” he said.

Polk County Manager Marche Pittman said Monday was a huge day for the county. He said a sheriff has to serve all the people and that is the challenge of being a sheriff.

“Sheriffs and deputies should be proud of this role in their communities,” Pittman said.

Pittman said the main focus is taking care of the people they serve and that Polk County is currently in a time of transition, as leaders see the new people and things coming in.

“Myself and the county commissioners look forward to facing the future with Sheriff Wright and his staff,” Pittman said. “It’s going to be a future of working together.”