Hamilton County will say goodbye to a dedicated and honorable public servant on Jan. 14. Sharetta Smith has served the citizens of our county for over seven years.
She began her career in the Public Defender's office. She was then appointed to my office as a county magistrate/judge.
For those who are unaware, magistrates are the judicial officials who, among other things, conduct bond hearings, issue arrest warrants and determine if a search warrant is granted. It is not an easy task. Your four magistrates are on duty and on call 24/7.
Ms. Smith has been doing these tasks for over five years. She has been a volunteer in the community and most importantly Sharetta has been laser focused on her children. She has raised and sent to college two beautiful children.
Now she wants to go home.
I admire and respect my friend Sharetta. She has been an invaluable colleague. She will be missed by our judges, police officers and deputy clerks. I will especially miss her wonderful personality and how she she always told me, "I don't shake hands I hug."
Sharetta, we all wish you happiness and good fortune in everything you do.
Randy Russell
Chief Magistrate