With the election over and Jan. 15 fast approaching, Sheriff-Elect Ron Puckett is quickly ramping up plans for the Morgan County Sheriff’s Department. Puckett said hopes to transition smoothly and quickly as his team works to meet the high expectations of the people of Morgan County. While some pieces of the transition will take time, the implementation of his command structure can begin now so that the pieces are in place to begin to meet the challenges on the first day in office.

Puckett recently announced the selection of Lt. Chris Price to fill the role of chief deputy. Puckett has had the opportunity to know and work with Chris through the years as a resident of Hartselle and an officer in the Sheriff’s Department. Throughout that time, Puckett said he has come to respect Price’s ability to lead while earning the respect of those that follow and his dedication and work ethic. In this new role, Price will be able to rely on his diverse experience as well as his deeply rooted understanding of Morgan County.

More on Lieutenant Chris Price:

As a Morgan County native, Price saw the calling of law enforcement through his father Walter “Bubba” Price, a retired captain with the sheriff’s office and the sincere commitment to others through his mother Brenda Wade. A lifelong resident of Hartselle, Price is a 1997 graduate of Hartselle High School. After graduating, Price followed in his father’s footsteps and joined the sheriff’s department in 2004. He then continued his development in law enforcement by graduating from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Academy and transitioning to the patrol division in late 2004. In 2006 he was assigned to the narcotics division where he attended basic narcotics training at the Naval Air Station in Meridian, Ms. as well as S.W.A.T. Training in Jefferson County. During his time in the narcotics division, the team was instrumental in dismantling numerous clandestine methamphetamine labs throughout Morgan County.

After his time in narcotics, Price rejoined the patrol division where he was promoted to sergeant and eventually lieutenant in 2015. During this time Price received the “2010 Officer of the Year” award from the American Legion, Post 15 and twice earned the Merit Award from the Sheriff’s Office. He also completed the field training manager program through the University of North Florida.

Price is married to Mandy Evans Price and is the father of four. The Price family enjoys grilling, spending time with friends and family and cheering on the Alabama Crimson Tide.

Puckett said he looks forward to working with (Price) and believes his experience and ability to build relationships. (Price) will be integral as we lead the Sheriff’s Department and uphold the trust that is placed in us,” Puckett said.