JORDAN TAKES OVER AS CAPE COUNTY SHERIFF

JACKSON -- Six days after his election, John Jordan became sheriff of Cape Girardeau County.

Jordan, who had worked as a lieutenant in charge of investigations during the administration of former sheriff Norman Copeland, will serve the remainder of Copeland's term, which expires Dec. 31, 1996.

County Clerk Rodney Miller administered the oath of office to Jordan in the department's training room Monday, and interim sheriff Leonard Hines presented him with the badge.

Approximately 100 people turned out for the ceremony, including Jordan's wife and two children, parents and other family members, deputies, representatives of area law enforcement agencies, county officials and friends.

Jordan thanked the voters for entrusting him with the job and praised Copeland, who hired him.

"This is a service position, and I will not let the people of this county and the employees of this department down," said Jordan. "This is a powerful office and a powerful position. Power has to be used wisely or you will self-destruct."

As sheriff, Jordan promised to be open-minded with the public and employees.

Jordan said he has not finalized an organizational plan for the department, but should have something ready within a week.

With a new sheriff, all deputies had to be recommissioned, a process that took most of Jordan's first hours on the job.

Commissions were signed by Presiding Commissioner Gene Huckstep and Presiding Circuit Judge William Syler. New deputies were sworn in by Circuit Clerk Charles P. Hutson Jr.

Ruth Ann Dickerson continues as chief deputy. Hines appointed her to the post after he took over from Copeland Aug. 1. Dickerson had been a lieutenant in charge of the communications division under Copeland, who retired.

When Jordan became sheriff, Hines' 10-year career with the sheriff's department ended. He had served as chief deputy under Copeland.

The only way Hines could stay with the department is if he were hired by Jordan. During the sheriff's campaign, Hines campaigned for Jordan's opponent, Democrat Benny Hinton.

Hines said he enjoyed his employment, including the three months as sheriff.

"It was an honor to have had the opportunity to serve," said Hines. "I have absolutely no regrets about supporting Benny Hinton, but now that John Jordan has been elected I hope he does a good job. I wish him well."

Before being sworn in, Jordan gave the county clerk his campaign finance disclosure report, which was required to be filed before he assumed office.

Jordan was nominated to run for sheriff by the county Republican Central Committee in August. He took a leave of absence and vacation from the department in early September to devote full time to his campaign.

"This election is over; now it is time to go to work," said Jordan.