New Burke County Sheriff Brad Capitosti issued a statement via social media on Tuesday about his new position in the wake of Gov. Brian Kemp suspending former sheriff Alfonzo Williams following a criminal indictment.
"I am humbled by the trust that has been placed in me, and I am excited about what we can accomplish together as we begin this new chapter," Capitosti said in his statement posted to the sheriff's office Facebook page. He was appointed to the role by the Burke County Board of Commissioners.
"As with any transition, there will be change," said Capitosti. "I believe change, when guided by the right intentions and a belief in doing what is best for the people
we serve, can make us stronger."
Kemp on Monday suspended Williams after a state review commission determined that his recent federal indictment adversely affects the administration of the sheriff’s office and the public interest.
Williams was indicted July 9. He faces five counts of extortion under the color of official right and one count of transfer of a firearm to a convicted felon, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Georgia, based in Savannah.
The indictment was forwarded to the governor and received July 16.
A review commission appointed by Kemp on July 31 concluded in an Aug. 10 report that the charges are related to Williams’ official duties and negatively affect the operation of the Burke County Sheriff’s Office. The commission recommended his suspension under Georgia law.
Subsequently, Kemp issued an executive order on Monday to immediately suspend Williams from office pending the outcome of the case or the expiration of his term, whichever comes first.
This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: New sheriff vows change after Burke County leadership shakeup
