Ala. Code § 45-45-235.02
Any sheriff, serving on January 17, 1995, of Madison County who elects to participate in the supernumerary sheriff's program shall receive service for supernumerary status for any time served as sheriff after January 17, 1995. Any sheriff, in order to receive service credit for prior service as a sheriff or law enforcement officer, shall pay into the Madison County General Fund an amount equal to the total contribution he or she would have made as a sheriff for a period not to exceed five years or the time of prior service as sheriff, whichever is less. Any contribution previously paid into the Madison County General Fund under Article 3, commencing with Section 36-22-60, Chapter 22, Title 36, shall be allowed as purchase of prior service under this part.
Ala. Code § 45-45-235.02 (1975)