Gino Brantley Begins Term As Sheriff Of Richmond County
Gino Brantley is officially the new sheriff in town.
A swearing-in ceremony for Richmond County’s top law enforcement officer was held at the end of December, but he’s officially been on-the-job since January 1.
Brantley announced earlier that his mission, while in office, was to reduce violent crime, gang activities, and traffic fatalities. The county logged 49 homicides and 40 traffic fatalities in 2024, something Brantley said prompted him to make recruitment, hiring and retention his top priorities.
Brantley just hired 100 new employees, who have been sworn-in and are set to begin their new duties on Monday, January 6.
“We cannot make Richmond County a safer place without people who are fully committed to this community’s well-being. I’m incredibly grateful to the citizens of Augusta-Richmond County for their trust, and to the Commission, Mayor Garnett Johnson, and County Administrator Tameka Allen for supporting our salary restructure plan,” said Brantley.
Gino Brantley Announces Compensation Increases
In announcing the 100 new hires at the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, Brantley also said starting salaries for certain positions were going up.
- Starting salaries for deputies will increase from $50,000 to $56,400 annually
- Starting pay for jailers will increase from $41,000 to $51,258 annually
- $1,500 stipends will be awarded to certified employees with 5, 10, 15 and 20 years of service.
Staffing shortages impacted nearly 60% of police departments nationwide in 2023, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Brantley said he and his command staff are working to reverse that trend by offering competitive salaries and growth opportunities.
“This isn’t just about adding numbers, it’s about building a team that’s equipped and motivated to address the challenges we face. As Philippians 4:13 says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. With that in mind, I pledge to work diligently alongside my team to improve the safety and security of our citizens and visitors in Richmond County,” said Brantley.
He added his goal is to make Richmond County a place where everyone feels safe and supported.
