Pursuant to Executive Order, effective December 1, 2018 Russell County Judge Executive Gary D. Robertson is appointing Derek Polston as Russell County Sheriff from December 1, 2018 through January 6, 2019 at which time he will be sworn in as Sheriff. This is due to the retirement of Clete McAninch which will take place on November 30, 2018.
The following is a letter from McAninch to R.C. Judge Exec. Gary D. Robertson:
To Whom It May Concern:
Please accept this letter as a notice of my formal resignation and retirement from my position as Russell County Sheriff. My last day of employment will be on Friday, November 30, 2018.
It has been my pleasure to serve our county as sheriff over the last four years. I have never taken the job as sheriff lightly. One of the highlights serving as your sheriff is being able to collaborate with other law enforcement to help eliminate some of the drug problems our county has faced. The job as sheriff has been much more than just helping to stop the drug problem. As sheriff, it has taught me how important a work ethic is and has given me opportunities to provide programs to our county and our schools to help keep the citizens safe. I regret not being able to finish out the last month of my term as your sheriff. But, due to the circumstances advised by the Division of State Retirement it would be best for me to retire effective November 30th rather than December 31st.
I have been blessed to serve the citizens of our county for over 26 plus years in law enforcement and thankful for all of your support of the Office of Sheriff and me the last 4 years.
Sincerely,
Clete McAninch, Russell County Sheriff