Derrick Reifenrath appointed sheriff

There’s a new sheriff in town.
Derrick Reifenrath of the Custer County Sheriff’s Office was appointed as sheriff June 18 due to the retirement of Sheriff Marty Mechaley. Reifenrath ran uncontested for the position of Custer County Sheriff when petitions were open this spring.  
The appointment took place at a special meeting of the Custer County Commission Thursday in the commission meeting room. 
“Thank you, gentlemen, for all the years. I really appreciate all of you,” said Mechaley.
The commissioners said they appreciated Mechaley as well. 
Reifenrath’s appointment as sheriff was unanimous. The commissioners agreed on a starting pay of $44.57 an hour or $92,718 a year, which is the current rate. 
“I appreciate getting to work with you guys in the future and keep the county going strong,” said Reifenrath. 
“We know you will,” said commissioner Craig Hindle. 
The appointment was made official in the Custer County Courtroom at 2 p.m. when Reifenrath was sworn into office by Judge Stacy Wickre of the Seventh Judicial Circuit Court. 
Repeating after the judge, Reifenrath said, “I do solemnly swear that I will support the Constitution of the United States and the State of South Dakota to faithfully discharge the duties of my office of Custer County Sheriff, and by giving a bond, when one is required, and I will faithfully and impartially discharge the duties of the sheriff’s office and render a true account of all money, credits, accounts and public personal property requiring inventory, as defined in rules issued by the state and county as shall come into my hands as such officer, and pay over and deliver the same according to law.”
After signing the official documentation in the presence of the judge, Wickre said, “Welcome to the job, sheriff.” 
Applause erupted through the courtroom from the friends, family members, colleagues, former Custer County sheriffs and county officials present. 
Reifenrath’s wife, Hannah, had the honor of pinning on his badge.