Lt. Williams leaves Ramona station

Lt. Rich Williams, who has headed the San Diego County sheriff’s Ramona station since September 2014, is leaving on May 26 for a new role as personnel lieutenant at sheriff’s department headquarters in San Diego. The department anticipates a surge in retirements, and he will be involved in hiring recruits, getting them trained, checking backgrounds and making sure the department is adequately staffed.

A 24-year veteran of the sheriff’s department, Williams said most of his experience has been in the field and this will be more administrative.

“I’m sure going to miss Ramona. It’s been a blessing to be here,” he said.

Williams expressed appreciation for support received from the community, various organizations and the sheriff’s Citizen Advisory Group.

“We’ve made some really, really good working relationships,” he said.

He will be replaced by Lt. Jerry Hartman, who comes from the Rancho San Diego station and will begin on May 27.

“I know Jerry very well. He’s a good man,” said Williams, adding that they have worked together in the past.

Williams said Hartman has already made contacts with area emergency responders by attending a May 17 fire pre-planning meeting. At the meeting, Williams said, were representatives from Cal Fire, Julian Fire Department, Ramona Municipal Water District, San Diego Gas & Electric and law enforcement.