A sheriff is the key law enforcement officer in a county. From the organization of Hamblen County in 1870 my count shows that thirty-three men have been chosen as the sheriff of the county. For those who have held the office their primary responsibility was to enforce laws, with many further responsibilities of maintaining the jail, managing the budget, directing deputies, and basically being on call throughout the day and night.

Several of the earlier sheriff’s would serve 2 year terms, while most would serve 4 year terms. George Henry Boyd would become first sheriff of the county in 1870, while Chad Mullins currently holds the office. With the danger involved in the job, it requires a special type of person to work in law enforcement. Of the ones who have served as sheriff, 2 have been

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