Shelbyville, TN – Neighboring Bedford County is preparing for a major shift in leadership as longtime Sheriff Austin Swing has announced he will not seek another term. After more than five decades of service, Swing’s decision marks the end of an era defined by innovation, compassion, and a deep commitment to both public safety and rehabilitation.
Swing’s tenure has been anything but conventional. While many sheriffs focus solely on crime prevention, Swing expanded the role to include meaningful rehabilitation and reintegration efforts. He was recently honored during a graduation ceremony for the Moral Reconation Therapy (MRT) program, a nationally recognized initiative that helps inmates develop better decision-making skills and self-awareness. Swing’s support of MRT was unwavering, and he even created separate therapy sessions and graduation ceremonies for male and female inmates at the Bedford County Jail in Shelbyville.
His approach to reducing recidivism was hands-on and forward-thinking. Inmates participated in enrichment activities like gardening and arboriculture—programs designed not just to pass the time, but to teach valuable skills that could help them reintegrate into society. Swing also opened doors for former inmates to work in recovery programs, giving them a chance to contribute meaningfully and earn a living…