New Wayne County sheriff prepares for position after death of Benny Napoleon Raphael Washington has served region for decades Updated: Tags: DETROIT – The new Wayne County sheriff, Raphael Washington, has served the region for decades and is looking forward to the years ahead. “I’m a 38-year law enforcement veteran and started with the Wayne County Sheriff’s Office in 1983,” said Washington. More: Over the years and some pit stops along the way Washington worked his way to the top and is now the new sheriff. “In 1985 I went to the Detroit Police Department for the next 24-years, and I’ve been back here going on 12 years now,” he added.