The Selma Times-Journal

Gov. Bob Riley on Monday appointed Charlie W. “Chip” Williams of Fort Deposit as Lowndes County sheriff.

Williams’ appointment – effective immediately – comes after the untimely death of Sheriff Willie Vaughner earlier this month.

“I am excited to take over as sheriff, and I hope to assist Lowndes County in as many ways possible,” Williams said. “I want to continue Sheriff Vaughner’s good works, and help the citizens of Lowndes County.”

In a press-released statement, Riley touted Williams’ experience for his decision.

“I am honored to appoint Chip Williams as Lowndes County Sheriff,” Riley said. “He has extensive law enforcement experience as a former deputy sheriff and as a parole officer. I am confident he will serve the people of Lowndes County well.”

Chief Deputy John Williams had assumed the role of acting sheriff after Vaughner’s death, and county officials had hoped he would be appointed top lawman.

“Chief Deputy (John) Williams has been working on the force for almost 30 years and I thought it was more than fair that he get a shot at the position,” said Charlie King, chairman of the Lowndes County Commission. “The majority of people wanted John to have an opportunity to prove himself and the commissioners supported John.

“That didn’t happen so we have to move on with what we got. Ultimately (Riley) has the power to appoint who he pleases and that’s what he did.”

“Chip” Williams now serves as parole officer supervisor for the Alabama Board of Pardons and Parole.

He previously served as both an investigator and deputy sheriff for the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department.

A Troy State University Montgomery graduate, “Chip” Williams is certified as a chemical weapons instructor and an FBI firearms instructor.

He is a member of the Alabama Council on Crime and Delinquency, the Police Benevolent Association and the Fraternal Order of Police.

He is a member of the Fort Deposit Volunteer Fire Department, and volunteers his time coaching for Dixie League Baseball and Softball.