(Audio of the entire swearing in ceremony, except the portion for deputies and other staff, can be heard by clicking here.  Sheriff Brame’s first remarks as Sheriff of Vance County are at the end.)

(Video of Sheriff Brame being sworn in and outgoing Sheriff White’s final remarks can be seen at facebook.com/wizsradio and by clicking here.)

Earlier today at the Vance County Courthouse, in a Superior Court Room filled with family, staff and community members, Curtis R. Brame was sworn in as Vance County’s newest sheriff.

Brame, who began his law enforcement career in 1983 as a Vance County deputy sheriff, has worked with three long-serving administrators, including Tommy McGhee, Thomas Breedlove and Peter White.

After a “long” campaign that saw him face-off in May’s primary against two fellow democratic candidates before facing Republican Charles Pulley and unaffiliated candidate Allen Simmons in November’s General Election, Brame was more than happy to celebrate his victory. “It’s been a journey,” said Brame. “This is a day to rejoice and we shall be glad.”

In a ceremony presided over by the Honorable J. Henry Banks, attendees were welcomed by Captain Weldon Bullock and received the Invocation from the Rev. Joann Kittrell.

Remarks were made by Attorney Paul Jerry Stainback, Rev. Dr. Walter Melvin Brame, Rev. Audrey Davis, Brame’s sister and Patrice Brame, Brame’s wife.

Clerk of Superior Court Henry Lee Gupton administered the public oath of office to Brame. Upon completion, Brame was congratulated by Gupton and received a standing ovation from those in attendance.

In addition, an oath was administered to deputies, detention officers and the civilian staff of the Vance County Sheriff’s Office.

In his first official remarks as sheriff, Brame expressed his gratitude for the leadership of Sheriff Peter White and his pastor, Opie Terrell of Nutbush Baptist Church. He specifically thanked White and wife Gloria for their encouragement and support during his campaign.

Brame also addressed the need for unity and communication in the community and promised that he and his staff would have an open-door policy on listening to the concerns of citizens. “Let’s take back our community so our schools can be safe, neighborhoods can be safe and churches can be safe,” Brame said.

Closing remarks were made by Sheriff White who praised Brame’s work ethic. “I’ve known this young man for a long time and I know his work ethic is second to none,” White said. “This guy is work, but most of all, he has a heart for people. I believe his work ethic and his faith brought him to this position.”

“Vance County could not have done any better.”

Following White’s remarks, a benediction was led by Pastor Terrell. A reception followed in the courthouse’s multipurpose room.