CADIZ — Harrison County now has a new county prosecutor — Lauren Knight was elected into office on Tuesday.

Knight, a Republican, defeated Democrat Steve Stickles in Tuesday’s general election. Knight garnered 5,093 votes, more than doubling the votes cast for Stickles, who received 2,248 votes, according to unofficial totals released by the Harrison County Board of Elections.

Knight will replace incumbent Prosecutor Owen Beetham in January, after she defeated him in the April primary election.

Knight said she is excited to have the trust of county residents and is ready to begin her term as prosecutor.

“We ran a campaign on the issues being presented to the people of Harrison County and how I plan to help fix those issues, and I think that showed through in the results we got. I really want to thank those who supported me, and I look forward to serving the residents of Harrison County,” she said.

Knight is a lifelong resident of Harrison County and previously served as the county’s assistant prosecutor for three years. She also has operated her own law practice for the past year.

Knight said she plans to work closely with law enforcement to ensure all cases are thoroughly investigated. She said she is committed to prosecuting criminals to the fullest extent of the law.

Knight said she will ensure her office is accessible to all those in need of her services.

Knight said Harrison County will be a priority and she plans to put the residents of the county first.

“I look forward to being able to serve the people of Harrison County and making sure the job is done well,” she said.