After Rick Boone became Jackson County’s new sheriff, he chose to appoint his Lieutenant Derrick Bermea to be his Chief Deputy. On Facebook, Bermea said he didn’t think twice, so he was officially sworn in on January 8.
“Rick has definitely shown the faith he has in me and we have definitely created an awesome team. I couldn’t thank him enough for the opportunity and I will strive to be a great partner once again to continue the successes of the Sheriff’s Office,” Bermea said.
Bermea began the Police Academy 14 years ago and began setting goals for himself while beginning his career at the Calhoun County Sheriff’s office, where he was promoted to Narcotics Investigator. From there he was able to learn all aspects of law enforcement.
“I burned out after 10 years due to struggling mentally with my son battling leukemia, my first wife battling cancer and passing away,” he said. “I had to step away from law enforcement.”
So he worked at his BBQ restaurant Still Smokin’ and had no intentions of taking another fulltime role in law enforcement. Until one Friday night after a home football game Boone told him he was going to be taking the Chief of Police job and was considering hiring him if Bermea was interested.
“I instantly said if available I will go to work. Four years ago I began working for Edna PD and during this time I was able to learn and grow as an all around Officer,” he said.
It’s obvious all of his hard work has paid off and led Bermea to where he is today.
