Archie Dunn named Interim Sheriff

A new sheriff is sworn into office as he begins a ten week run as an interim. Archie Dunn has been named the new interim sheriff in jasper county. This, after commissioners formally accepted former sheriff Bill Pierce`s retirement this morning. Commissioners decided Archie Dunn was the perfect choice because they said a combination of his people skills and years of experience make him the right choice. As you know, Archie Dunn retired just three years ago from the Missouri State Highway patrol after serving for more than three decades there. But now he is back at work in law enforcement as the top dog at the jasper county sheriff`s department. Dunn will assume the responsibility of chief administrator, taking care of the budget, raising the morale of the department, and making sure things run smootly until a permanent sheriff is elected in the special election coming up. Dunn says he is looking forward to a successful run as interim sheriff, even though he didn`t quite expect it. "I was very surprised. I was enjoying my retirement. But I`m also a Jasper County citizen, interested in what`s going on here. I thought I could do some little part to get things lined out and going again," Dunn said. Dunn will fill the position until the special election on September 30, when the permanent sheriff will be elected. That person will fill the role until next year`s November election. Dunn says he`ll promptly return to retirement on October 1. In an interview with Chief Deputy Jerry Neil today, he says he plans on running for the sheriff`s position, both in the September special election and in the regular election next November. Reported by: Ryan Loyd