(WWJ) A panel in Wayne County has made its pick to fill the position of the late Benny Napoleon who passed away from COVID-19 complications in December.
Deputy Chief of Jails and Courts, Raphael Washingto,n has been named Sheriff. He spoke first to WWJ City Beat reporter, Vickie Thomas.
"I'm someone who cares about people, the citizens of Wayne County, men and women at the Wayne County Sheriff's Office and the inmate population we hold in custody," Washington said. "I care about them."
Washington was appointed by County Prosecutor Kym Worthy, County Clerk Cathy Garrett, and Chief Judge of Probate Court Freddie Burton, with Burton abstaining. He described his reaction when he learned he'd been chosen for the position.
"First thing I thought was what a Mighty God we serve. I was just really overwhelmed, and I actually fell to my knees and started crying, with me and my wife together," Washington told Thomas. "It was really overwhelming and so surreal to be appointed to the position while I was mourning my great leader, my great Sheriff Benny Napoleon."
13 other candidates were in consideration for the position including Robert Dunlap, chief of Wayne County jails and courts, and Undersheriff Daniel Pfanees who served as interim in the wake of Sheriff Napoleon's death.
Washington must run for election in 2022 in order to remain Sheriff. He assumes the position immediately.
Napoleon had previously served as Wayne County Sheriff since 2009 before he died on December 17.
