STURGIS, S.D. – For the first time in 32 years, Meade County has a new sheriff.
Pat West was sworn in as the new Meade County Sheriff during a ceremony held at the Erskine Building Friday. Judge Heidi Linngren presided over the swearing in.
West, who won the sheriff’s election earlier this year, replaces Ron Merwin, who was first elected to the post in 1990.
The commission room where the swearing in ceremony was held was filled and West offered a thank you to all his supporters.
“I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart, especially my wife, who has been there for a lot of stuff. I also want to thank my boys and family.”
West says you are only as good as the people you surround yourself with.
“And, I have some great people who I have worked with, worked for and worked for me. It’s what has made me successful as a law enforcement officer. I am passionate about law enforcement, and I look forward to being in this role.”
He also told those working within the Meade County Sheriff’s Office he looks forward to working with them, but he knows there are some challenges ahead, such as the drug problem and the jail.
As for his incoming staff, West announced James Johns as his chief deputy and Caleb Deyo will be overseeing the Meade County jail.
