Undersheriff Cris Clark to replace Santa Cruz County’s Sheriff Hart in December

SANTA CRUZ COUNTY, Calif. (KION-TV) -- In the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors meeting Tuesday, it was announced that starting on Dec. 6 this year, Undersheriff Chis Clark will be replacing Santa Cruz County's Sheriff Hart.

Clark says that he grew up all around the world but will always call Santa Cruz County his home. He also mentioned being with the Sheriff's Office through multiple named sheriffs at the agency in addition to some tough incidents that the community has faced. He specified the pandemic, CZU fire, flooding in South County and the murder of Damon Gutzwiller as examples of this.

"I've worked or led every aspect of this office and I've had many mentors like Sheriff Hart and so many others," said Clark. "I can say confidently I understand our business and the way we carry out those duties, which is equally important in partnership with you and your constituents."

Some of Clark's goals include the need to certify the Sheriff's Office DNA lab to help with sexual assault cases, as well as to improve facilities to help with people who have mental health issues and face incarceration.

Sheriff Hart announced his retirement earlier this month.

This is a developing story.