“No one will ever have to say ‘the first African American’ to hold this role”; new Johnson County sheriff makes history

OLATHE, Kan. -- There’s a new Johnson County sheriff in town as he makes history swearing-in.

Sheriff Byron Roberson is the first African American man to lead the county and the first Democrat to wear the badge in more than 90 years.

“It feels great,” Roberson said. “But I feel even greater that no one will ever have to say ‘the first African American’ to hold this role. There will be many others after me.”

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In his inauguration speech, Roberson mentioned that his goal is to serve by example, lead with integrity, and treat everyone equally.

“The root of what we do is taking care of human beings,” Roberson said. “We do our job every day. We know how to catch criminals. We know how to file cases with the District Attorney’s office, but sometimes, we have to be reminded that we have to treat everyone as human beings. That is key; you can’t go wrong if you do that.”

Roberson also mentioned sustaining a strong partnership with the community and with surrounding counties and cities.

“We are going to have to make sure that we are good partners with our community, and that is first and foremost,” Roberson said.

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Steve Howe was also sworn in as he was re-elected to his fifth 4-year term as Johnson County district attorney.

Julie Brewer was sworn in as she took her new role as county commissioner of the Third District.

County commissioners Jeff Meyers and Shirley Allenbrand were also sworn in. Both are beginning their second 4-year .

The first meeting with the new board will be on Thursday, Jan 16.

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