One of the largest crowds in county history gathered in the circuit courtroom to watch the official swearing in of a new Henry County Sheriff. Taking place at noon on July 25 at the courthouse in Clinton, very proud family members and friends watched the formal and official event.
“I Aaron Brown do solemnly swear that I will support the constitution of the United States and the state of Missouri,” said Brown as he repeated the full oath. “I will faithfully demean myself in the office of sheriff.”
Outgoing Sheriff J. Kent Oberkrom stated his full support of his former deputy and Johnson County Undersheriff. Recently appointed to the state parole board by Missouri Governor Mike Parsons, Oberkrom was unable to attend the ceremony.
“I am so proud to see Aaron (Brown) elected to follow me as Henry County Sheriff,” said Oberkrom. “He will do a very good job.”
Additional county officials stated their full support.
“We will have an excellent sheriff in Aaron (Brown),” said Presiding Commissioner Jim Stone. “All of us here in the courthouse are proud of this moment.”
Northside Commissioner Rick Fosnow felt the same.
“This is a great time for Henry County,” said Fosnow. “We’re sorry to see Kent (Oberkrom) go, but very happy for Aaron (Brown).”
Several officials commented on the size of the crowd.
“This is the biggest swearing in I’ve ever seen here (courthouse),” said Henry County Deputy Registrar Kelly Marriott.
Family in attendance were just as proud.
“Aaron (Brown) has such a compassion and drive,” said proud mother-in-law Devin Snow. “He is very caring.”
Big sister Nicole Brown was enjoying the moment.
“Aaron is our little brother,” said Brown. “He worked so hard for this moment.”
Both Brown parents have passed away, and Nicole commented on the big event for them.
“Mom is smiling down on Aaron today,” said Nicole Brown. “This would be the biggest of special moments for her.”
The official change-over took place a minute after midnight, at 12:01 a.m. the following morning.
