Administration

Sheriff Ronnie “Bo” Burnett
Since being elected Marion County Sheriff in 2002, Sheriff Burnett has demonstrated unwavering dedication to the community. With a law enforcement career that began in 1979 at the Jasper Police Department he furthered his experience when he joined South Pittsburg Police Department in 1985. He returned to Jasper Police Department in 1998. He honed his skills throughout the years to better serve Marion County. A graduate of the Tennessee Law Enforcement Academy in 1981, Sheriff Burnett has always prioritized the safety and well-being of our citizens, working diligently to save the county and its residents money whenever possible.

Chief Billy Powell
Chief Billy Powell began his career with Marion County in 1990 as a deputy, gradually advancing through the ranks to become a sergeant, captain, and ultimately Chief Deputy. Throughout his tenure, he has acquired a wealth of certifications in areas such as EVOC, defensive tactics, and DUI enforcement, and he has been an active member of the Special Response Team (SRT) for several years. In addition to his operational roles, Chief Powell has contributed significantly to law enforcement education as an instructor of driver safety classes for court systems across the state. He has also dedicated 21 years to firearms training, including Tennessee handgun permit training, and served as a firearms instructor with Cleveland State Academy for 16 years. Furthermore, Chief Powell has spent 22 years as a training officer for the Marion County Sheriff’s Department and has worked closely with other law enforcement agencies in the county, showcasing his commitment to professional development and community safety

Lieutenant Beth Raulston
Lt. Beth Raulston began her career with the Marion County Sheriff’s Department (MCSD) in November 1999 as a corrections officer, serving in that capacity for six months before transitioning to dispatch for two years. In 2002, she attended the basic law enforcement academy, after which she became a road deputy. Her exemplary performance led to a promotion to sergeant within just a few short months. In June 2007, Lt. Raulston advanced to the role of detective, where she distinguished herself through her dedication and investigative skills. In January 2024, she was promoted to the position of lieutenant, expanding her responsibilities to include overseeing other departments within MCSD while still managing numerous cases as a detective. Just a few of her remarkable accomplishments include serving as a negotiator on the MCSD SWAT team, being a Task Force Agent for the TBI Tennessee Task Force, completing the prestigious National Forensic Academy in 2022 and specializes in prosecuting crimes against children. Lt. Beth Raulston is highly regarded for her commitment to serving Marion County, earning the admiration and respect of her colleagues within MCSD, the broader law enforcement community, and the citizens of the county. Her dedication and professionalism continue to make a significant impact on public safety and community trust.

Lieutenant Tim Prince
Lt. Timothy Prince has dedicated over three decades to the Marion County Sheriff’s Department (MCSD), beginning his career in 1990 as a corrections deputy. After two years, he transitioned to dispatch for six months before moving to the road as a deputy, where he has continued to serve with distinction. His leadership qualities were recognized when he was promoted to sergeant in December 2003. Most recently, in late 2023, he achieved the rank of lieutenant. Throughout his tenure, Lt. Prince has been a valuable member of the MCSD SWAT team, demonstrating his commitment to handling high-stakes situations with professionalism and skill. His extensive experience in law enforcement, coupled with his deep familiarity with Marion County, makes him an invaluable asset to the department and the community he serves. Lt. Prince’s dedication and knowledge of the county truly enhance the effectiveness of the MCSD.

Administrative Assistant – Beata Slatton
Beata Slatton joined Marion County in 2022 as an Administrative Civil Process Clerk. Her keen attention to detail ensured civil process was handled smoothly- from intake to service to completion. Fall of 2024 Beata was promoted to Administrative Assistant. In this vital role she wears many hats, tackling a variety of responsibilities that keep our operation running smoothly. She manages everything from the Sheriff’s needs, maintaining in house finances to overseeing essential records and handling evidence, Beata is an integral part of our team.

Civil Process Administrator Ashley Slatton
Ashley joined MCSD fall of 2024 as Civil Process Administrator in which she is responsible for the entry, maintenance and management of our deputies’ service of civil process. In addition to her primary role, she assist our dedicated administrative staff and helps maintain evidence, and ensuring everything runs smoothly in the administrative office. Ashley is also here to support our citizens with their request.
*All biographies of Marion County Detectives do NOT reflect all of their certifications and/or training. The dates are approximate. These biographies are a synopsis of their work history, training, certifications, and experiences.