Hunter McIntyre is sworn in as an honorary deputy at the Alleghany Sheriff's Department on Nov. 26.

McIntyre gets wish when sworn in as deputy here

During his eight short years, youngster Hunter McIntyre has been certified as a deputy sheriff in two locations, formerly at his hometown of Orlando, Fla. and most recently here in Alleghany on Nov. 26.

Becoming an honorary sheriff's deputy, he was deputized by outgoing Alleghany Sheriff Mike Caudill. Hunter received a uniform shirt typically worn by county deputies as well as a badge. He was also given the opportunity to ride along side Caudill during the town's Christmas parade.

When asked about his interest in being a deputy, he said he wanted to help people, fight crime, ride in helicopters and give people a fresh start.

"...and I get to lock people up," Hunter said with a chuckle, recalling a time when older brother James was placed in a holding cell by a Florida sheriff on Hunter's say so.

The youngest McIntyre stated he had once considered becoming a Florida State Trooper and when asked why he changed his mind, a wide smile came across his face as he said, "I wanted to be a state trooper, but I found out a deputy makes more money and benefits."

The bright-eyed youngster was diagnosed with Duechen's muscular dystrophy in March 2003, according to his parents, Tonya and James McIntyre. Duechen's muscular dystrophy is a neurological disease that results in a weakness in muscles. Mrs. McIntyre stated, in Hunter's case, he is losing his internal muscles.

The family, including sister Reba, brother James and dogs Murphy and Charlie moved to Sparta from Orlando, Fla.

Tonya said she took the initiative to contact Caudill.

"I called the sheriff's office and I said, ‘You're going to think I'm crazy,' she said with a laugh, ‘My son is on medical leave from Orange County, Fla. and he would like to join your police department.'" She said her son really wanted to be involved with local law enforcement.

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