Chad Chronister sworn in as Hillsborough County sheriff

TAMPA (FOX 13) - The Hillsborough County Sheriff's gold star has been passed on.

Chad Chronister was appointed interim sheriff by Governor Scott last month after Sheriff David Gee announced his retirement.

Friday morning, in front of a packed Tampa courtroom, Chronister was sworn in by Hillsborough Chief Judge Ron Ficarrotta.

A humble Sheriff Chronister said thank you, "to my family, my friends. Thank you for being the people that only dreams are made of."

The 49-year-old has had a stellar law enforcement career. He joined the Hillsborough Sheriff’s Office in 1992 and worked street crimes, narcotics, and was promoted to colonel last year.

His other passion is working with the Boys and Girls Club and building community trust.

"We can't be a successful law enforcement agency without the trust and commitment and faith that our community has in us," said Sheriff Chronister.

Chronister is married to Nicole DeBartalo and they have two sons. His father-in-law is Tampa Bay businessman and former 49ers owner Eddie DeBartolo.

"He cares about everybody. He's a family man and he’s going to make Hillsborough very, very proud of him," said DeBartolo.

Attorney General Pam Bondi and the new Hillsborough County State Attorney Andrew Warren were also in attendance.

"I think Sheriff Chronister is going to do a great job continuing the legacy of Sheriff Gee," said Warren.

Sheriff Chronister says he’s ready to hit the ground running.

"I woke up this morning, thanked God and my family, and I rolled up my sleeves and [am] definitely ready to get to work," said Sheriff Chronister.

Governor Scott appointed Sheriff Chronister to serve until the November 2018 election and then voters will decide who finishes Gee's last two years.

Chronister says he will be running to become the elected sheriff.

Chronister tweeted on Friday morning that he is "humbled and honored to serve, protect, and unite the visitors and residents of Hillsborough County as your next Sheriff."