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Sheriff-elect O'Neill selects undersheriff

Julia Botero
/
WRVO
Sgt. McDermott accepts O'Neill's nomination as undersheriff

Jefferson County Sheriff-elect Colleen O'Neill has selected retired state trooper Sgt. Brian McDermott as  her new undersheriff. O'Neill made it a point during her campaign that, if elected, she would work to restore the department's tarnished reputation caused by allegations of sexual  harassment in 2012.  

O Neill, who also retired from the New York State Police, says she has known McDermott throughout his career. She says she trusts him and his ability to bring respect back to the sheriff's department through hard work and honesty.

McDermott, a native of Syracuse, retired last year from the state police department after more than 34 years of police work. He went on to work as O'Neill's campaign manager during the recent election.

McDermott says working with O'Neill during her campaign helped him become familiar with her vision and principles which he shares.

”I know what her goals are and I'm here to help her achieve those goals at the sheriff's office," said McDermott.

O'Neill says she and McDermott haven't yet determined what new policies to enforce or what changes to make in the sheriff's department.

"I see us both going to the sheriff's office with an open mind, and listening to the concerns of what the agency has at this time and what the citizens of the county have at this time. As police officers we like to gather all the information before we take action," said O'Neill.

As undersheriff, McDermott  will work alongside O'Neill when she assumes her position as sheriff in January.