Leesburg, Ga. (WALB) - On Tuesday, Dec. 30, Chief Deputy Lewis Harris Jr. of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) retired, citing a medical disability.

Harris had served with the office for more than 27 years. According to the sheriff’s office, he began his law enforcement career as a cadet with the Albany Police Department (APD) in 1989. After that, he was vice president and manager at Field’s Gas and Oil, Inc. in Leesburg before joining the Lee County Sheriff’s Office in 1998.

Since 1998 until his retirement, Harris served LCSO as a deputy, investigator, lieutenant, and chief deputy.

He announced his retirement in a letter to the Lee County Board of Commissioners, Sheriff Reggie Rachals, the command staff and local media.

You can read the full letter below:

I am writing to formally submit my notice of retirement due to medical disability from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, effective Tuesday, December 30, 2025. 

After more than twenty-seven (27) years of dedicated service to Lee County, it is with deep respect and reflection that I make this decision. Serving the citizens of Lee County and working alongside the men and women of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office has been the greatest honor of my professional life. I have been privileged to serve in many capacities throughout my career, culminating in my role as Chief Deputy, a position I have carried with pride, commitment, and integrity.

Due to ongoing medical conditions that now limit my ability to continue performing my duties at the level required of this office, I have been advised that retirement is in the best interest of both my health and the agency. This decision was not made lightly, but after careful consideration and consultation with medical professionals.

I am profoundly grateful to the Lee County Board of Commissioners for their continued support of law enforcement and public service, and to the Sheriff, command staff, and all deputies and employees of the Sheriff’s Office for their professionalism, camaraderie, and unwavering dedication to public safety. The relationships built and experiences shared over these years will remain with me always.

It has been an honor to serve the citizens of Lee County, and I remain proud of the work we have accomplished together in protecting and serving our community.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve.

Lee County Sheriff, Reggie Rachals, also sent WALB a letter thanking Harris for his years of service.

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