Hawkins County Sheriff Ronnie Lawson announces retirement

Hawkins County Sheriff Ronnie Lawson will not seek reelection in 2026. Lawson confirmed to WJHL on Thursday that he plans to retire in August 2026 after 16 years as the county’s chief law enforcement officer. Lawson was first elected in 2010. Hawkins County’s next sheriff will be elected in the August 6, 2026 general election.