(a)      The sheriff of Baltimore City and each county may appoint, from time to time, from among his deputies a second in command. On the death, disqualification, or resignation of the sheriff or in the event the sheriff is convicted of a felony, the second in command shall succeed to all the powers, duties, responsibilities, and obligations of the sheriff until a successor has been appointed by the Governor.

      (b)      Immediately upon assuming the powers of the sheriff, the second in command shall file a bond with the State Comptroller, in the same penalty and on the same conditions as that required of the sheriff.