Lenoir County commissioners named Lenoir County Sheriff's Office Chief Deputy Chris Hill interim sheriff at its Monday meeting after W.E. “Billy” Smith announced he will resign at the end of March after 24 years in office.

Hill is one of only two chief deputies during Smith’s tenure.

Hill said before to media he’s ready for the job after serving with the sheriff's office nearly 30 years.

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A veteran lawman here in Eastern Carolina is retiring at the end of next month.

The North Carolina Sheriff's Association says Lenoir County Sheriff Billy Smith is leaving office on March 31st. The association sent an email out to its members today. Smith confirmed his retirement with WITN News this afternoon.

Smith, a Democrat, has been sheriff since January 1, 1989. His term runs out next year.

Lenoir County commissioners will appoint a new sheriff who will serve until next year's election.