Richmond County’s new sheriff swears in scores of new deputies
AUGUSTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - New Richmond County Sheriff Eugene “Gino” Brantley is swearing in roughly 100 new deputies Thursday at May Park.
There is no shortage of deputies now in Augusta-Richmond County.
And for the first time in over a decade, a new sheriff.
Brantley unseated Richard Roundtree, who’s served as sheriff for 12 years and marked his last day in office Tuesday.
Brantley took his oath of office last week and started as sheriff Wednesday with the new year.
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The new year brings a new sheriff as Eugene Brantley officially takes over as Richmond County’s top cop. In the transition, one notable deputy will be out of a job.
“Ready to get to work and get Richmond County back to being one of the more prominent agencies that we used to be,” said Brantley.
Brantley says change is his first step.
As he swears in 100 new deputies, he says he’s making good on his promises.
“It’s a step in the right direction and I think as long as they know that I’m fighting for them and we are all fighting for the same goal, I think we’re going to have a nice, safe city,” said Brantley.
Part of that change is pay raises.
“With me going to the commissioners and asking for 5.3 million to give you all raises to make sure you are not underpaid. They want to give you the money, but they want to see their money at work. So, I’m just asking. When you are out there, you’re giving them what they’re paying for,” he said.
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Starting salaries for deputies will increase from $50,000 to $56,400 annually while starting pay for jailers will rise from $41,000 to $51,258.
Additionally, $1,500 stipends will be given to certified employees with 5, 10, 15 and 20 years of service.
“I think it’s important that we get back out in the community. Get back to a community-oriented style of policing because when people feel like they can trust you. There’ll be more forthcoming with you,” said Brantley.
Because for him and his team, he says it’s all about safety.
“You should see an increase of officer presence on the highways on I-520, on I-20, on Gordon Highway. And just out there to help make our city a little safer,” he said.
With policies like these, new deputies, like Tiffany Dixon, say Richmond County is exactly where she wants to be.
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“They have new endeavors and adventures that are going to make Richmond County better. And I’m just excited to be here to be a part of that journey,” said Dixon.
Brantley also addressed security with it being top of mind after the fatal attack in New Orleans.
His focus was on our next major live event in April — the Masters.
“It’s highly unlikely you can stop every attempt. You just don’t know what’s going on in people’s minds and there’s a lot of evil out there. We just have to focus and do the best that we can with what we have,” said Brantley.
Brantley also says Augusta National does a great job working with the sheriff’s office.
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