DAWSON, Ga. (WALB) - A new sheriff is coming to Terrell County for the first time in three decades.

Sheriff Vernon Jessie says he’s looking forward to building a team of strong men and women that will tackle issues in Terrell County head-on.

Various members of the community came out to support the new sheriff of Terrell County. Vernon Jessie says he’s delighted to represent the county he was raised in.

“Terrell County is where I live, Terrell County is my home. With the right resources available and the right people in place we can make a difference,” Jessie said.

Jessie wants to work closely with local law enforcement to add new technology like flock cameras across the county.

“The city of Dawson just got some flock cameras. I will collaborate with Chief Thornton to see what process he took to get those flock cameras within the city of Dawson. If we can put some on the outskirts to catch them coming in, we can attack the issues we have,” Jessie stated.

As the custodian of the jail, maintaining an atmosphere that’s clean and safe for inmates is Vernon Jessie’s top priority.

“It’s my job to make sure that the inmates are treated fairly, make sure they are fed right, and make sure the inmates’ needs are met. As the custodian of the jail that’s what we plan on doing,” Jessie said.

Jessie has worked in Terrell County for 40 years and he calls it an honor to be chosen to serve and make a difference in his community.

“I wish Mom and my dad were here now to witness this. I am just grateful to serve a community I love so much. We are going to put a group of men and women together to make sure we make Terrell County a safer place for you to come in and our family to live.”

Vernon Jessie wants the community of Terrell County to have a positive relationship with law enforcement and he’ll begin laying the groundwork for his career as sheriff at the beginning of next year.

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