Hightower sworn in to replace Kentucky’s longest serving Sheriff

BOWLING GREEN, Ky.- Brett Hightower was sworn in Thursday morning as Warren County’s new sheriff.

Joined by his family, Hightower was sworn in at the Warren County Fiscal Court meeting by Judge-Executive Michael Buchanon.

Hightower was sworn in Thursday because Sheriff Jerry “Peanuts” Gaines is retiring on Dec. 31, as advised by the Kentucky Retirement Office.

Hightower will serve out the remainder of Gaines’ term before he’s sworn in again on Jan. 4 with all other county officials who won in November’s election.

Hightower, a Republican, decided to run for sheriff one year ago this month. He tells WNKY he’s ready to get to work.

“It feels really good to accomplish this mission, and to go out and talk to so many different people was truly amazing,” said Hightower. “I really can say I had a phenomenal time throughout the campaign process, but now, that part of the work is done and now it’s time to turn the page.”

During some comments after the swearing in, Hightower called Sheriff Gaines an “iconic figure” and thanked him for his contributions to the community.