Independence County Sheriff Shawn Stephens told White River Now’s Gary B. this morning that he has decided to fill the position of Chief Deputy Sheriff in a few days when the next pay period begins.
The position has remained open since the sudden passing of Chief Deputy Jeff Sims. He passed away earlier this year as the result of a heart condition.
Sims was much loved by department personnel for his engaging personality and his ability to find humor in a profession where the work seldom lends itself to that.
Stephens said he has decided to promote from within and has been evaluating his current personnel to decide who will be the best fit for the position.
The sheriff said his evaluations are pretty well complete, and in a few days, he will make his decision known to his department and the public.
He added that he was fortunate to have several officers who meet the requirements to be Chief Deputy Sheriff.
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