New Sheriff in Mingo County

WILLIAMSON, W.Va. -- Mingo County has a new sheriff.

During a special meeting today, Mingo County Commissioners appointed James Smith as the county's new sheriff. He's the department's former chief deputy.

Smith will serve the remainder of Sheriff Eugene Crum's term. Crum was shot and killed during his lunch break earlier this year.

"I know we're being judged by the actions of a few right now, but there are some good people here," Smith said. "2013 has been a bad year for Mingo County. We've got to get it turned around and get it going positive and in the right direction."

Commissioners interviewed four candidates before appointing Smith.

"Each applicant had a true plan on how to move forward in Mingo County," Commissioner John Mark Hubbard said.

Smith is expected to take the oath of office Monday afternoon.