Benton County gets new Sheriff (BCSO Facebook)
Benton County gets new Sheriff (BCSO Facebook)
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A former Richland Police Officer then head of the Benton County Jail operations has been named the new Benton County Sheriff.

Tom McCroskrey worked for the County in what's called a Patrol Deputy position for 12 years before joining the Richland Police Force, retiring from there in 2019.

He was then hired by former Sheriff Jerry Hatcher to oversee the Benton County Jail Operations. However, in a much-publicized departure due to what he called horrible working conditions, he left the jail and the department.

Hatcher became the first official in Benton County, and the first Sheriff in WA state history to be recalled. The vote was 74% in favor. McCroskrey was one of three candidates to replace Sheriff Hatcher, the eventual vote coming from the Benton County Republican Party because that was Hatcher's affiliation.

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McCroskrey took over full command of the Department in 2019 after allegations were brought up concerning Hatcher's pending divorce case, involving domestic violence and witness tampering claims.

He was one of seven employees in the Department who filed claims against the county over allegations of Hatcher's misuse of his position and abuse of subordinates. The county has not responded to the claims, and so far no lawsuit has been filed.

McCroskrey told the Tri-City Herald he wants to bring back integrity to the department, his first official day will be Monday, Oct. 4.

 

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