Seven experienced law enforcement officers with various backgrounds recently joined the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Mike Fitzhugh and Deputy Chief Britt Reed welcomed the officers and presented them with their badges.

“We try to operate as a family,” Fitzhugh said of the Sheriff’s Office with more than 500 employees. “I think you’re going to enjoy it here.”

Fitzhugh explained the county citizens elect the sheriff who answers to them. The elected members of the County Commission fund the Sheriff’s Office budget.

“I want you to remember we work for the people,” Fitzhugh said. “They’re our boss.”

The sheriff asked deputies to use patience, understanding and sympathy because these qualities are critical when responding to citizens.

Sheriff’s certified deputies may seek an abundance of opportunities including serving in patrol, investigating criminal and narcotics crimes, mentoring students as school resource officers, protecting the judges and people attending court, serving warrants, maintaining evidence and working with community resources.

Deputies may volunteer for the SWAT Team, K9s and Mounted Patrol Units and the Public Safety Cadets.