Richmond County Mourns Passing of Trailblazing Former Sheriff

Richard Roundtree, the county's first African American sheriff, leaves behind a legacy of service and community engagement.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:55pm

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An extreme close-up of a sheriff's badge reflecting a harsh, direct camera flash, conceptually representing the solemn passing of a respected law enforcement leader.The somber loss of a pioneering sheriff who transformed community relations through compassionate leadership.Augusta Today

The Richmond County Sheriff's Office has confirmed the death of former Sheriff Richard Roundtree, who served as the county's first African American sheriff from 2013 to 2024. Roundtree was praised for his professionalism, compassion, and commitment to building trust between law enforcement and the community through initiatives like neighborhood watch programs and youth outreach efforts.

Why it matters

Roundtree's tenure as sheriff marked a significant milestone for Richmond County, as he broke barriers and set an example of strong leadership and dedication to public service. His passing is a loss for the community he served, but his legacy will continue to inspire future generations of law enforcement.

The details

Richard Roundtree was elected as Richmond County's first African American sheriff in November 2012 and served in the role for 12 years, from 2013 until 2024. During his time as sheriff, Roundtree worked to transform the relationship between law enforcement and the community through various community engagement initiatives, including the Community Services Division, neighborhood watch programs, and youth outreach efforts such as CHAMPS and Dad's in Action.

  • Richard Roundtree was elected as Richmond County's first African American sheriff in November 2012.
  • Roundtree served as sheriff from 2013 until 2024.

The players

Richard Roundtree

The former sheriff of Richmond County, Georgia, who was the first African American to hold the position. Roundtree was praised for his professionalism, compassion, and commitment to building trust between law enforcement and the community.

Sheriff Eugene Brantley

The current sheriff of Richmond County, who released a statement honoring Roundtree's legacy and commitment to public service.

Augusta Commissioner Jordan Johnson

A local official who shared his thoughts on Roundtree's passing and the impact he had on the community in a Facebook post.

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What they’re saying

“Sheriff Roundtree dedicated his life to public service, leaving behind a legacy defined by professionalism, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to this community.”

— Sheriff Eugene Brantley, Richmond County Sheriff

“As the first African American Sheriff of Richmond County, he broke barriers and set a powerful example of leadership, perseverance, and dedication.”

— Sheriff Eugene Brantley, Richmond County Sheriff

“His vision for community engagement transformed the relationship between law enforcement and the citizens of Augusta.”

— Sheriff Eugene Brantley, Richmond County Sheriff

“Personally and professionally, I am grateful for the foundation he helped build. We will continue to honor his legacy by carrying forward his commitment to service, community, and excellence.”

— Sheriff Eugene Brantley, Richmond County Sheriff

“His impact will continue to be felt for generations.”

— Sheriff Eugene Brantley, Richmond County Sheriff

The takeaway

The passing of Sheriff Richard Roundtree marks the end of an important chapter in Richmond County's history, but his legacy of community engagement, professionalism, and breaking barriers will continue to inspire future generations of law enforcement leaders.