Scott Israel sworn in as Broward Sheriff

Israel replaces Sheriff Al Lamberti

SUNRISE, Fla. – Broward Sheriff-elect Scott Israel was sworn in to office Tuesday morning.

About 3,000 people attended the swearing-in ceremony at the Faith Center in Sunrise. Israel replaces former Sheriff Al Lamberti.

During the ceremony, Israel thanked his wife for her support after his failed election bid in 2008. He also touched on social issues.

"Homeless people are not problem people but rather people with problems," he said.

Israel spoke about the elementary school shooting in Newtown, Conn.

"I will do everything I can to keep assault weapons out of Broward County," said Israel. "Our cultural change begins today with me demanding - not asking, not requesting - but me demanding that our leaders never rule by fear, intimidation."

And he promised to de-politicize BSO while also playing to the county commissioners in attendance.

"BSO has a yearly budget of approximately $700 million. Maybe county commissioners can make it a little more," he said with a laugh.

Early Tuesday, Israel posted his first message on the BSO website, saying: "We will focus on crime prevention, crime control and enforcement, fire safety and awareness, and maintain the highest standards for employee education, training and professionalism."