PARIS – Christopher Wainwright has assumed the duties of former Chief Deputy Sheriff James Davis, who retired Thursday, according to Oxford County Sheriff Lloyd “Skip” Herrick.

Currently Wainwright has the title “acting chief deputy sheriff.” After he works out a few legal details, Herrick said he hopes to officially promote Wainwright.

Herrick said that after Davis’ resignation, filling the slot was a priority. Wainwright said he has been filling on the chief deputy’s duties since Davis went on a leave of absence in July.

“I have no question in his ability and interest in doing the job,” Herrick said.

The chief deputy sheriff is the department’s No. 2 position. In Herrick’s absence Wainwright will have all the power and authority the elected sheriff would have, Herrick said.

If Wainwright gets the position permanently, Herrick said he will make a public announcement.

“We need to make sure the public can be comfortable that the sheriff’s office can function quite effectively,” Herrick said.

Wainwright said he is pleased and honored to assume his new duties, and is glad the sheriff is showing confidence in him.

“I look forward to the challenge,” he said.

Both he and Herrick believe the promotion will give Wainwright a boost in his campaign for sheriff. Wainwright hopes to step into the No. 1 position when Herrick retires at the end of the year.

“It will show that he can handle the responsibilities of the sheriff,” Herrick said.

Herrick said he is still looking into who will take over Wainwright’s previous duties as a lieutenant. Wainwright had handled the 12 full-time road patrol officers along with other administrative responsibilities. For now, other department officials will step in to help, and Herrick said he will replace Wainwright after the November election.

Wainwright, 35, has been with the department since 1991. Herrick said he will get a pay raise with the new position.

Davis retired under scrutiny. He has been on administrative leave since July while accusations that he harassed his former girlfriend are being investigated by the Attorney General’s Office.