News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Sparta Police Chief Jeff Guth will retire Aug. 31, capping a 33-year career in law enforcement.
Guth said the decision wasn’t easy but knew the timing was right.
“I just felt like it was time to branch out and see what else was out there,” Guth said. “I just decided it was the right time to make this move. I don’t have any plans other than that. I just felt like it was time to spend some time with the family and enjoy spending some time away.”
Guth first became Sparta’s police chief in 1996 and joined the department in 1992. He previously served as an officer with the Franklin Police Department and Williamson County Sheriff’s Department before coming to Sparta.
Guth said he has appreciated his time with the department and has enjoyed serving as Sparta’s police chief.
“Being the chief of police is just an awesome responsibility to have,” Guth said. “You hope that you make the right decisions. Of course not every decision is popular, and you can’t make everyone happy all the time. But it is an awesome responsibility to have and it’s not one that I’ve taken lightly.”
Guth commended Sparta’s city officials for their effort in helping maintain the city and said he appreciates their continued support.
“I think the department’s in a good position [and] I think the city’s in a good position,” Guth said. “It’s got good leadership, and I think that everything being said will lead this department and move this city forward into the future. I’m anxious to see that happen.”
Guth said he plans to remain a Sparta resident during his retirement while spending time with his wife, son and daughter-in-law, and their newborn son.
Sparta’s Board of Mayor and Aldermen will officially begin the process in finding Guth’s successor during Thursday’s regularly-scheduled meeting at 5 p.m.
