Neal Harwell was sworn in as sheriff for Richland Parish on Dec. 16.
Judge Will Barham administered the oath of offi ce at the courthouse.
Harwell will serve as sheriff until a special election can be held for the position.
Harwell served as chief deputy under Sheriff Gary Gilley during his terms in office. He was sworn into office following Gilley’s death last week.
“We decided to not to make a big deal out of it,” Harwell said. “Nobody wants to become sheriff like this.”
He said he’s proud to continue serving the people of Richland Parish and will announce his official candidacy for the office when a special election is called.
Harwell sworn in as sheriff Fifth District Court Judge Will Barham, left, swears Neal Harwell in as Richland Parish Sheriff, as Harwell’s daughter, Maddy Harwell, holds the Bible.
