Trump appoints Sheriff Arnott to federal post

President Donald Trump has nominated Greene County Sheriff Jim Arnott to a federal post.

Arnott was tapped by the president to serve a four-year term as U.S. marshal for the Western District of Missouri, according to a White House news release.

In a statement posted to the Greene County Sheriff's Office Facebook page, Arnott said he would continue to serve as sheriff during the U.S. Senate confirmation process. 

"I will also be working closely with the Greene County commissioners to ensure a smooth transition to an appointed Greene County sheriff and to assist in preparing for a future election," Arnott said in the post. "This process will take place after I am confirmed by the United States Senate, which may be several months."

In a Facebook post last night, Missouri Gov. Mike Kehoe made a statement on Arnott’s appointment.

“Fantastic selection by President Trump in nominating Greene County Sheriff Jim Arnott to serve as the next United States marshal for the Western District of Missouri,” Kehoe wrote. He added in part, “We look forward to seeing his dedication to justice and serving our state continue.”

The Greene County Commission released a statement congratulating Arnott on the appointment.

"We have worked closely with Sheriff Arnott for many years and in that timeframe have found him to be a tremendous advocate for the safety of the citizens he serves, his deputies and employees, the sheriff’s office, and law enforcement and public safety in general," the statement reads. "He is effective and works tirelessly to ensure the Greene County Sheriff’s Office provides high quality services to our community."

Arnott was first elected sheriff in 2008. According to past Springfield Business Journal reporting, he was elected sheriff following a 20-year career with the Greene County Sheriff’s Office, during which he served as chief deputy and rose through the ranks over 15 years in the Criminal Investigations Division. 

Arnott said in the Facebook post announcing his appointment that it would be an honor to serve as a U.S. marshal, what he said is the oldest federal law enforcement agency.

"Serving the people has been the honor of my lifetime, and I look forward to continuing that service in this new role," he said.