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Bowman sworn in as new Alexander County sheriff

Donna Swicegood

Chris Bowman (center) takes the oath as sheriff of Alexander County Tuesday afternoon in the Alexander County Superior Courtroom. Holding the family Bible for Bowman are his granddaughter, Kasi Palmer, his parents, Kenneth and Elaine Bowman, and his wife, Elizabeth. Judge Edward Hedrick (far right) administered the oath.

By Donna Swicegood | Statesville R&L

Published: October 15, 2009

TAYLORSVILLE — After more than 20 years with the Alexander County Sheriff's Office, Chris Bowman is now the top cop in the county.

Bowman was sworn in as sheriff of Alexander County at a ceremony Tuesday in the Alexander County Courthouse.

Bowman is taking the place of Hayden Bentley, who announced his retirement effective the end of September. Bowman was chosen by the Democratic Executive committee to serve out the remaining year of Bentley's term. That nomination was approved by the Alexander County Board of Commissioners at its meeting Monday.

Bentley said Bowman is the right choice for the job.

"Chris is like I am. He loves everybody in the community," he said.

Bowman has been with the sheriff's office for more than 25 years, serving in various capacities from patrol deputy to lead investigator to chief deputy, a position he took when Bentley was elected sheriff in 2002.

Bowman took the oath of office from Judge Edward Hedrick with his wife, Elizabeth, his father, Kenneth and mother, Elaine and granddaughter, Kasi Palmer, standing by to hold a family Bible.

"I'm not used to all this," Bowman said as he looked out over the packed Superior Court room.

Bowman expressed appreciation to the men who held the job as sheriff during his tenure in the office.

He said Tom Bebber, Ray Warren and Bentley all taught him a lot about being a deputy.

Bowman said he plans to follow the path set by Bentley in running the sheriff's office.

"I want to keep the sheriff's office doors open to anyone," he said.

After Bowman took the oath of office, the deputies, detention officers and communications personnel were resworn by Clerk of Court Danny Dyson. Sworn personnel have to be issued the oath of office upon a new sheriff taking office.

Bentley's term expires next year and Alexander County residents will vote on a new sheriff in November.