A large crowd was on hand Monday to watch Greg Christopher be sworn in as the new county sheriff.

Applause — and a standing ovation — greeted Haywood's newest public servant after the commissioners fulfilled their statutory duties and appointed the candidate selected by the Democratic Party. By law, the political party with whom the elected sheriff is associated selects a replacement in the event of a mid-term vacancy. Retiring sheriff Bobby Suttles was a Democrat.

Christopher told the crowd he will work hard for the people.

“I want to thank the Demoratic Party for giving me this opportunity to serve," he said. "I know I’ve been entrusted with this county’s safety. and I take that very seriously."

Law enforcement officers, as well as representatives in the district attorney's office, were ...