New Interim Sheriff Named In DeKalb As Mann's Suspension Begins

DECATUR, GA -- Less than a day after he was suspended, embattled DeKalb County Sheriff Jeffrey Mann has been replaced, Patch has learned. A DeKalb judge on Tuesday appointed Ruth Stringer, a 25-year veteran of the sheriff's office, to serve as top cop on an interim basis, the office announced.

The ruling by Superior Court Chief Judge Courtney Johnson comes as Mann began the first day of a 40-day suspension handed down by Gov. Nathan Deal. Mann is going to trial on obstruction and indecency charges stemming from his arrest in Piedmont Park on May 6. SIGN UP: To get notified of the local news like this, click here to sign up for the Decatur Patch. Or find your Atlanta-area town here. Or, if you have an iPhone, download the free Patch app.

Stringer, a retired Marine, said in a statement: "With the support of my more than 800 dedicated colleagues at the Sheriff’s Office, I will continue our commitment to the safety and security of the communities we serve and to performing at a level of excellence in all that we do."

Ga. Governor Suspends DeKalb Sheriff Jeff Mann For 40 Days

Mann was arrested in early May for allegedly exposing himself in Piedmont Park. Video from a Midtown homeowner's security camera shows the sheriff fleeing from police. The grainy footage, which was released online, could be vital evidence in a case, which is headed to trial. It shows a figure purported to be Mann running, followed seconds later by a police officer wearing reflective gear.

Mann was detained by an Atlanta police officer after the policeman observed a man exposing himself in an area of the park known for “sexual acts after dark,” according to the police report.

Watch: Video shows DeKalb Sheriff running from police

Mann has apologized for his actions, saying that he was sorry for "the unfavorable light my arrest has brought upon this county, the dedicated men and women of the Sheriff's Office and most importantly the citizens."

Deal has appointed Attorney General Chris Carr, Newton County Sheriff Ezell Brown and Peach County Sheriff Terry Deese to an investigative committee looking into Mann's conduct. The order says that "The committee shall make a report of its investigation to me within 30 days of the date of this Executive Order."

Image via DeKalb Sheriff's Office