Jason Futch
reporter2.riverbendnews@gmail.com
After 36 years, a new administration took over the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office (HCSO) after the swearing-in of Sheriff Brian Creech on Monday, Jan. 6. However, a special ceremony took place at the county courthouse in Jasper on Friday, Jan. 10, when friends, family and colleagues gathered around to watch the sheriff's badge pinned on him, along with other accolades. The ceremony opened with Sheriff Creech's wife, Alison, giving words of inspiration and hope to her husband and those who will be working with him. "I would like to take a moment to thank all of you here today for your support and trust in him," Alison said. "To his colleagues in law enforcement, public officials and members of this community: your belief in his leadership means the world to him and our entire family." She also commented on the familial sacrifices made during his campaign for sheriff. "As his wife, I have had the privilege of witnessing his tireless efforts, his integrity and his compassion in action every single day. He has always been deeply committed to ensuring that justice is served with fairness and that every voice in our community is heard." Following additional presentations, Judge Jamie Tyndal came forward to begin the pinning ceremony. The first to be pinned was the flying wheel insignia, which is used to distinguish traffic enforcement at the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP). "As a former trooper with 31 years with the FHP, Sheriff Creech has requested that the flying wheel insignia be worn on his right breast pocket above his nameplate as a reminder of his FHP family that molded, structured and provided professionalism throughout his career," Tyndal said as FHP Colonel Gary Howze pinned the insignia to Sheriff Creech's shirt. The next insignia pinned to Sheriff Creech was the Sheriff's Collar Brass. "The stars symbolize authority and leadership, signifying their role as the highest-ranking law enforcement officer within their county," Tyndal said. "Much like how a star guides travelers in the night, the sheriff is seen as a guiding force in the community, protecting their safety." Sheriff Creech's collar brass was pinned by his parents, Serena and Gerald; his brothers, Kevin and Anson; his daughter, Brittany and his granddaughter, Zoe. The final insignia pinned to him was the sheriff's badge. "The sheriff's badge is more than just a symbol of authority," Tyndal said. "It represents a commitment to justice, integrity and the safety of our citizens. It represents countless hours of protecting and serving, the sacrifices made and the courage it takes to take on dangerous and sometimes difficult situations." The emotional moment came when Alison pinned the badge to her husband's shirt, followed by a strong embrace as the courtroom erupted in applause. Sheriff Creech then approached the podium. He thanked his colleagues and family for the support he received throughout the campaign and leading up to him taking the oath of office. "Today we not only just celebrate a pinning and badge ceremony but the beginning of a new chapter for this community," Sheriff Creech said. "I stand before you f illed with gratitude and pride. The trust you instilled in me means more than words can express, and I promise to honor that every day as I serve as your sheriff." Sheriff Creech not only thanked his family but also honored his predecessor, former Sheriff J. Harrell Reid, who served 36 years as the sheriff of Hamilton County. "He will always be my sheriff," Sheriff Creech said. Sheriff Creech continued to discuss matters of community, saying, "We will tackle crime head-on, ensure our deputies have the training and support they need, and create stronger bonds between law enforcement and the people they serve. We all are in this together." He also announced initiatives in the coming weeks and months that will include strengthening community policing, improving transparency and accountability and crime reduction. He closed his speech, saying, "None of this happens without you. Your continued engagement and partnership will make all the difference as we move forward. This victory is not just mine; it's yours. I can't wait to serve you." Following his speech, Sheriff Creech turned to Lt. Jackie Morgan, a veteran law enforcement officer who joined the HCSO in 2023 after years of service as a firefighter and with the Department of Corrections at Hamilton Correctional Institute (HCI) for over 30 years. Sheriff Creech noted Morgan's service as a K-9 officer with HCI, which came with many accolades and awards. "Following these regional accomplishments, Jackie was recognized back home as an HCI legacy employee." Sheriff Creech also noted Morgan's efforts to become a deputy, which he did through a crossover program at North Florida College and eventually being hired on at HCSO. It was noted that Morgan was second in his class when he graduated. Following his review of Morgan's career, Sheriff Creech announced that Morgan would be promoted to the rank of Captain at HCSO. This announcement marked the first promotion the sheriff has bestowed upon a deputy at the agency since taking office. Morgan's family pinned the insignias to his shirt.