Law and Order: Judge Hamby, Sheriff Riley honored as retirement approaches

Congressman Richard Hudson made some remarks in honor of Judge William Hamby and Cabarrus County Sheriff Brad Riley during a recent retirement ceremony held at Hotel Concord.

Hudson submitted two Extension of Remarks for the Congressional Record, the official published account of the debates, proceedings and activities of the United States Congress.

“Judge Hamby has dedicated his entire adult life to public service. After Graduating from UNC- Chapel Hill, he began his career as a middle school teacher until he was called for jury duty for a second degree murder trial. This piqued his interest in the judicial system and led him to alter dramatically his life’s plans. He applied and was accepted to Wake Forest University Law School, where he graduated in 1983.

After graduation, Judge Hamby moved to Cabarrus County and opened a thriving law firm. He then ran and was elected as a Cabarrus County Commissioner, where some of his most notable successes included improving the tourism industry, creating the Concord Regional Airport and building water supply stations throughout the county.

In 1994, Judge Hamby was elected as a District Court Judge and shortly thereafter became Chief District Court Judge. In this prestigious position, Judge Hamby became the longest-serving District Court Judge in the history of Cabarrus County. Over the years, Judge Hamby has served in many capacities as a certified Juvenile Judge, the head of all Chief District Court Judges and the North Carolina Association of District Judges, and the Judicial Vice-President of the North Carolina Bar Association.

Judge Hamby is married to his wife Vichele, and they have two wonderful children. I sincerely hope Judge Hamby enjoys his retirement, although I know he will stay active and engaged in the community.”

Hudson’s comments on Sheriff Brad Riley:

“I’ve known Sheriff Riley for many years, and throughout this time I have considered him a good friend. A lifelong North Carolina resident, Sheriff Riley attended Concord High School before heading to Appalachian State University for his Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science and Public Relations and receiving a Master’s Degree in Adult Education from N.C. A&T State University.

Growing up in Cabarrus County, Sheriff Riley always had a profound sense of duty to his hometown. In 1990, he put this sense of duty into action when he began his career at the Cabarrus County Sheriff’s Department. He quickly rose through the ranks and served as a Lieutenant on patrol, Chief Jailer, and Co-Commander of the SWAT Team. These positions are where Sheriff Riley gained valuable experience that enabled him to be appointed as Cabarrus County Sheriff in 2001 and to help shape Cabarrus County into the wonderful place it is today. Throughout his career, Sheriff Riley exhibited unwavering commitment to our community and we are fortunate to have had him as a leader for all these years. I know I speak for all of us in Cabarrus County when I say thank you, Sheriff Riley.

Sheriff Riley and his wife, Cindy, have two wonderful children, Brookelyn and David. It is my hope that Sheriff Riley will enjoy his retirement and remain a role model for all those he served over the years.”