Prior to the official end of his term, Sheriff, Ralph Johnson will be retiring.

His retirement will be effective Wednesday, December 31. Governor, Charlie Christ, will appoint Sheriff-Elect Michael A. Adkinson, Jr. effective Thursday, January 1, 2009 at 12:01 a.m.

We invite everyone to attend the swearing-in ceremony which will be held at 12:01 a.m. at the Walton County Courthouse in the 3rd floor courtroom. The Honorable Martha Ingle, Clerk of Court will lead the ceremony.

Sheriff Adkinson’s appointment will expire on January 5th.

Sheriff Adkinson will participate, along with the other constitutional officers being sworn, in the ceremony being held on January 6th at 8:30 a.m.

A celebratory reception will immediately follow the ceremony.

Sheriff-Elect Adkinson would like to thank Sheriff Johnson for allowing the access to the office and ensuring a smooth transition process.

Sheriff Johnson allowed a transition team to begin working at the Sheriff’s office in November. The team has been able to evaluate the current operations and prepare for the transition alongside current staff.

“I am extremely grateful that Sheriff Johnson has demonstrated a spirit of cooperation to ensure a smooth transition by allowing the team’s presence”, said Adkinson.