Chief Jailer Avery Johnson, center, has retired after working for the Anderson County Sheriff’s Department for almost 33 years. Also pictured are Anderson County Sheriff Paul White, right, and Chief Deputy Mark Lucas. (Submitted photo)
Chief Jailer Avery Johnson has retired after working for the Anderson County Sheriff’s Department for almost 33 years.
Anderson County Sheriff Paul White announced the retirement this week.
Johnson began his career with the department in February 1981, a press release said. After working in patrol, Johnson was assigned to the jail, and he was promoted to sergeant in charge of the jail operations in March of 1984. As the responsibilities of the jail operations increased, Johnson was promoted through the ranks of lieutenant, captain, and later, chief jailer.
Except for brief periods, Johnson has remained as the jail administrator since 1984 and may have been the longest-serving jail administrator in Tennessee, the press release said. During his tenure, the Anderson County Jail grew from a small facility in the courthouse to a modern detention center that will hold more than 500 inmates.
“Chief Johnson’s knowledge and experience have been invaluable to the department over these many years,” the press release said. “The Anderson County Sheriff’s Department wishes to thank Chief Johnson for his many years of dedication and service and wishes him well in his retirement.”
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