COVINGTON (WGNO) — Saint Tammany has a new sheriff for the first time in 20 years. And as part of Randy Smith’s inaugural plans, the new sheriff showed the video below for everyone to see. It is also posted on the department’s Facebook page.
Before you view the video, we want to warn you that it shows violent attacks on officers.
In the video, Sheriff Smith talks about the challenges facing communities everywhere as well as in St. Tammany Parish.
He also says, “Sometimes we need to remind ourselves what it’s like to walk a mile in their shoes,” referring to the dangers facing law enforcement officers.
Smith also touches on distrust between police and the communities they serve in some areas of the country.
“We cannot and will not allow this to happen in St. Tammany Parish,” the sheriff says in the video.
Smith says his new leadership will also bring fresh ideas to make sure the STPSO keeps the trust of the community it serves.
Last November, Smith defeated long time sheriff Jack Strain who was seeking his sixth term in office. In a runoff, Smith collected 52% of the vote.