ROANE COUNTY, TENN — Tim Phillips won the May primary election for Roane County sheriff and is set to become the county's 44th sheriff in September. He will succeed Jack Stockton, who is retiring after two decades in office.
Phillips has served as chief deputy at the Roane County Sheriff's Office. "It's pretty humbling to know that the people of Roane County came out and voted me in as sheriff-elect," Phillips said.
Phillips said his focus as sheriff will be on investing in the department's employees. "Your employees are the most important part of this organization. I want to make sure they know that and that we continue building on our investment in them. I want to leave this place better than I found it," he said.
He plans to send detectives to the National Forensics Academy to further develop their investigative skills. The department has also adopted new technology, including body-worn cameras, in-car cameras, and less-lethal options.
Lt. Randy Heidle praised Phillips’ vision, saying, "He's got some great ideas, and he wants to make us the best we can be for the community." Phillips also plans to hold a community picnic on his first day as sheriff.
No independent assessment was available for this report.