Sheriff Guillory: 'I'm living MLK's dream' – American Press

The official passing of the torch from Calcasieu Parish Sheriff Tony Mancuso to Sheriff-elect Stitch Guillory Thursday evening at the Lake Charles Event Center was an emotional ceremony that included moments of choked back tears from both men.

It's been a while since a new sheriff was sworn in. Mancuso became sheriff in July 2004 and was re-elected in 2007, 2011 and 2015 without opposition, and again in 2019.

“It is an indescribable honor to be the first African-American and the first from the west side of the river to hold this position,” Guillory said.

He spoke of Martin Luther's dream that his children would one day live in a nation where they would not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

“I'm living that dream,” he said.

Guillory's dream is to create a community, regardless of skin color, socioeconomic status or what side of the river they live on, that is united by a common goal: a safe community.

“Together, we will build a safer, stronger and fairer community for all,” he said.

As Calcasieu Parish District Attorney Stephen Dwight reminded the public, Guillory's beginnings were humble. He lived in the cities, worked at bus tables. He rose through the ranks of law enforcement starting with the Westlake Police Department, accepted Mancuso's request to be number two in the sheriff's office and, after 41 years of experience, received 60 for hundred of the public votes to become sheriff.

Mancuso expressed his sincere gratitude and pride during the celebration, calling Guillory a “loyal partner, public servant, trusted friend and newly elected sheriff.”

“Your election is a testament to your hard work,” Mancuso said of the work that has earned Guillory the respect of his colleagues and the community.

Guillory was sworn in as sheriff by U.S. District Judge James Cain Jr. A pinning ceremony followed to formally recognize Guillory’s command staff: CPSO Enforcement Commander Gene Pittman will assume the role of chief deputy; Franklin Fondel, deputy assistant chief of enforcement and investigations; Anthony “Trey” Mancuso, deputy assistant chief; and Jeff Miller, deputy assistant chief of corrections.

Vonita LaFargue's son, Casey, was recently promoted to chief of investigations. This promotion and this moving ceremony allowed her to realize that her son, who chose to join the sheriff's office right after high school in 2004, made the right choice, a choice that made her proud at home. era and which still makes her proud.

Todd Ory has been with the sheriff's department for 29 years. He was recently promoted to captain. In his mind, the swearing-in ceremony was more than just a formality.

“In today’s climate, it’s refreshing to see a community that still supports its law enforcement,” he said. “I’m invigorated by this reminder of why I do what I do, and I’m grateful to live in a community like mine. It’s not like that everywhere in this country.”