Chalmette, LA - Sunday, newly elected St. Bernard Parish Sheriff Jimmy Pohlmann takes the oath of office. Pohlmann replaces long time Sheriff Jack Stephens who served 28 years as sheriff.
"I'm excited, it's been a long haul. I've been working with the sheriffs department for 29 years, and I still have the same passion coming to work everyday. I enjoy the job that I do. As long as I can come to work every day, and love my job, I'm going to be here for a long time," said Pohlmann.
Pohlmann says he will continue the work on fighting crime in the parish while building on key initiatives already in place.
"We have a big initiative to fighting drugs, including getting out there, and bringing the fight to the streets, and also having a big emphasis in drug education, in the school systems, and trying to get help for drug addicts that's out there," said Pohlmann.
Pohlmann says he plans to continue training efforts, doubling the size of his training units, and improving the level of professionalism. Back in November, it was a hot, and contentious battle for the office, with opponent Wayne Landry.
"It was a tough race, we fought hard, and we knew that people would get it right, I think people trust and respect the sheriffs department, and I know the sheriffs department trust and respects our community," said Pohlmann.
"My expectations are very high about the new administration and Sheriff Pohlmann," said former St. Bernard Parish Sheriff, Jack Stephens.
Stephens served seven terms in office, making him one of Louisiana's longest serving sheriffs.
"The key to longevity; do the job, take care of the mission, and the primary mission in this office is the suppression of crime. If you can do a good job at that, and catch the guys who do commit the crime, people are going to be appreciative of that, and turn to the office," said Stephens.
"It's going to be a whole new attitude here, and I'm excited about it, I can't wait to get to work," said Pohlmann.
Also sworn in at today's ceremony, new clerk of court Randy Nunez. He replaces Lena Torres, who also served nearly three decades in the position.
