Hamilton County, TN – On Tuesday, January 1st, Sheriff Jim Hammond appointed Allen Branum to serve as Interim Chief Deputy until Austin Garrett officially takes over as Chief Deputy.

Allen Branum retired in 2018 after serving as Chief Deputy since August of 2008 under Sheriff Jim Hammond’s administration.

Since Chief Branum’s retirement, the position of Interim Chief Deputy has been held by retired Deputy Chief of Law Enforcement, Bill Johnson, who agreed to serve until December 31st. Chief Deputy Johnson retired in 2018 after more than thirty years in law enforcement.

“During the selection process, it was anticipated we would only need an interim Chief Deputy until December 31st,” noted Sheriff Hammond. “However, until Austin Garrett is able to complete his retirement with the Chattanooga Police Department and officially take over as Chief Deputy, it is important to me we maintain continuity in our operations.”

Chief Branum will remain Interim Chief Deputy until further notice.