Tyler TX — J.B. Smith was Smith County's sheriff since 1977, but, today, Larry Smith was sworn in as the new sheriff of Smith County.  Larry Smith supporters packed the Smith County jury selection room at the courthouse this morning.

After he was sworn in, he told the crowd his plans for the sheriff's department for 2013.

Sheriff Larry Smith says he'll run the department using two guidelines, "and that's the Holy Bible and the Constitution." He says the citizens of this county will get the law enforcement they deserve.

Dan Hood, Smith County resident, said "It's great day to start off the year of 2013 with Larry Smith being sworn in to the office of sheriff." Judge Jack Skeen said, "I think the crowd that was here and the reactions of all of Larry's supporters and the people were here reflects the great support that Larry has and the confidence that the people in the county and law enforcement have in Larry Smith." Smith says he's changing patrol shifts, putting more officers on the streets.

He also mentioned monthly media briefings, keeping media and residents informed. "He's going to be an outstanding public servant and an outstanding new sheriff we're all very proud of him," said Skeen. Smith says his first step as sheriff is to provide direction for the department. "Tell them how we're going to get there, what training is needed, the equipment that is needed to do their job. We're going to do all of that without asking for one penny more from the tax payers or the Commissioners' Court," said Smith.

Smith touts his new leadership team, saying they have more than 350 years of law enforcement experience combined.