MADERA – The Madera County Sheriff’s Office will welcome newly elected Sheriff Jay Varney during a formal Change of Command ceremony on Tuesday, Jan. 6, at 12:15 p.m, at the Sheriff’s Main Office, 14143 Road 28 in Madera.
Tuesday’s ceremony, which includes an inspection and review of deputies, will be carried out by both Sheriff Varney and outgoing Sheriff John Anderson, who made the decision to retire after serving four terms in office.
The Change of Command ceremony is a formal transfer of authority and responsibility from one commanding officer to another. The ceremonial aspect of this formal procedure ensures that the unit is never without official leadership, signifying a continuation of trust and allegiance to the men and women who serve Madera County.
Sheriff Varney says it is an honor to share this most auspicious day with Anderson, who, after 16 years of service, formally retires from office during the proceedings.
The two hold a special bond as they have worked together on a number of county projects since 2004 – not the least of which was the Peace Officers Monument that now stands in Courthouse Park.
Sheriff Varney assumes the helm after three decades in law enforcement. Prior to accepting the position as Police Chief of Chowchilla in 2004, his career in public service included serving the citizens in Dallas, Texas, and Lansing, Michigan. During his tenure as Chief of Police in Chowchilla, Varney was also called upon to perform the duties of acting City Administrator on two separate occasions.
Sheriff Anderson shared with staff his feelings about the department’s future, stating, “I am convinced that positive accomplishments will continue under the leadership of Sheriff Jay Varney.”
A reception immediately follows Tuesday’s formal ceremony.
