HAWKINS COUNTY, Tenn. (WJHL) — Hawkins County Sheriff Ronnie Lawson will not seek reelection in 2026.

Lawson confirmed to News Channel 11 on Thursday that he plans to retire in August 2026 after 16 years as the county's chief law enforcement officer.

He was first elected sheriff in 2010.

During Lawson's time as sheriff, the Hawkins County Sheriff's Office has continued to investigate the search for missing child Summer Wells.

Hawkins County's next sheriff will be elected in the Aug. 6, 2026 general election.

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