Alexandria Sheriff Dana Lawhorne formally promoted 10 deputies, the largest group to be promoted in more than two decades, at a Sheriff's Office ceremony on Thursday.

A chief deputy, captain, four lieutenants and three sergeants were promoted.

These promotions marked an important milestone in the history of the Alexandria Sheriff’s Office, signifying a major wave of leadership change in the ranks, according to the office. For the first time in 25 years, promotions are being made simultaneously at every level of office supervision.

The promotions were necessary by the recent retirements of several tenured and experienced supervisors and mark the beginning of a shift from baby boomer leadership to the next generation. Eight of the 10 staff assumed their new commands within the same month.

“The extensive experience and strong leadership of these talented men and women will not only greatly benefit those under their command but also the future direction of the Office,” said Sheriff Lawhorne in a news release.

City Manager Rashad Young gave the keynote speech and Edward Semonian, clerk of the Alexandria Circuit Court, swore in the following deputies at their new rank:

• Chief Deputy Clarke Stearns
• Captain Dottie Pope
• Captain Shelbert Williams
• Lieutenant Brian DeSouza
• Lieutenant Mavis Thomas
• Lieutenant Deborah Vaughan
• Lieutenant Douglas Woehlke
• Sergeant Jarrod Overstreet
• Sergeant Larry Richardson
• Sergeant Waraphan Srikongyos