Incoming Morgan County Sheriff Tyler Hooks said he’s ready to roll up his sleeves and get to work for the community.
The Buckhead resident takes office on Jan. 1, replacing retiring Sheriff Robert Markley.
Hooks’ background includes 20 years of law enforcement in Rockdale County, where he started as a detention deputy, was promoted through the ranks, and retired as a captain. His tenure includes several hours of specialized training. He also served as a U.S. Marshal FALCON participant in 2008, aiding in the arrest of several federal fugitives, and was a U.S. Soccer security liaison from 201618. Hooks has also received many awards, including Deputy of the Year in 2008 and the Excellence in the Pursuit of Justice Award from the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 2020.
He said his background in law enforcement prepares him well for the role of sheriff.
“My experience working in the jail as a detention deputy, on the street as a patrol deputy, with the DEA as a narcotics investigator, and commanding several divisions, including managing multi-million dollar budgets, has afforded me the knowledge to implement proactive strategies to protect our community from crime, prioritize community-oriented policing, and address the growing mental health and substance abuse challenges our deputies encounter on a daily basis,” Hooks shared.
He plans to use his budget management experience. As a taxpaying citizen himself, he promises to be fiscally responsible and a good steward of the people’s money.
On day one, he plans to establish the Morgan County Public Safety Foundation, a tax-deductible way to donate to the sheriff’s office and other first responders.
“This program provides a way for the citizens and local businesses to donate directly to the foundation where you can receive a dollar-for-dollar tax donation credit, reducing your tax liabilities and keeping your funds local,” he explained.
Hooks said he is also dedicated to seeking federal, state, and local grants.
As sheriff, he will also advocate for fair compensation for deputies.
“Our deputies deserve fair compensation for their hard work and dedication,” said Hooks. “It’s essential that we prioritize their well-being by ensuring they receive competitive salaries and benefits.”
In the 2024 General Election, Hooks beat Democrat Derrick Reid with 71.1 percent of the vote (9,293) compared to Reid’s 28.90 percent (3,778).
Following the victory, Hooks shared his gratitude with the community.
“I would like to take a moment to say thank you to the citizens of Morgan County,” he said. “I am beyond grateful and humbled to be your sheriff-elect. I want to praise God for guiding me throughout the campaign. His grace has given me the strength to see this, though. Your encouragement and faith have meant the world to my family, friends, and supporters.
“It’s difficult to find the words to express how your efforts have impacted my life,” continued Hooks. “This victory isn’t just mine; it belongs to the entire community. It’s a testament to our small town, rooted in an agricultural heritage and hardworking people who know the value and true meaning of community and resilience. Together, we will honor our traditions while embracing the future. I promise to serve you, ensuring that Morgan County remains safe to work and raise our families.”