Former Howard County Sheriff James Fitzgerald released a statement Wednesday night, a little over a week after he announced his resignation.
Fitzgerald resigned last Tuesday amid reports alleging racist and sexist slurs that came out during an investigation.
Here is his statement in full.
I would like to thank the many citizens of Howard County for supporting me as sheriff for the last 10 years.With a resolution agreed upon by all involved, it is now time to close this chapter. My family and I need to heal and move on with our lives.I appreciate the support of my sworn and civilian staff, our neighbors, our community and of course my family. I have received countless emails and texts of support over the last few weeks. It has put tears in my eyes. I appreciate local news for asking for my side of the story -- however -- media interviews will only encourage this story to continue.I look back over 40 plus years, a lifetime of commitment to Howard County, and I am honored to have served and protected.I pray for strength and peace, and to the citizens of Howard County -- always take care of each other.
