SPARTANBURG, S.C. —

For the first time in two decades, Spartanburg County has sworn in a new sheriff. Bill Rhyne took the oath of office as sheriff of Spartanburg County on Friday, with family members, fellow law enforcement deputies, and community support as witnesses.

Rhyne has an already lengthy resume, with a career in public safety spanning almost 30 years, but says the role is something he felt called to fulfill.

“If you look at my career, most people would’ve thought my career in law enforcement was over because I had retired,” Rhyne said. “They wouldn’t expect this door to open up.”

Rhyne wasn't the only person to take an oath Friday; his hand-selected command staff was also sworn in, making history as the first-ever female member of the Spartanburg County command staff to take

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