COLUMBUS — A Columbus attorney is preparing to become Georgia's next inspector general.

The Columbus Ledger-Enquirer reported Wednesday that Deron Hicks is preparing to join Gov.-elect Nathan Deal's administration.

Hicks said he looks forward to the "wonderful opportunity" of taking the job, which is charged with investigating fraud and waste in state government.

The 42-year-old is a partner with the Columbus firm Page, Scrantom, Sprouse, Tucker & Ford and is the former general counsel for the Homebuilders Association of Georgia.

He said he will start his position after Deal is sworn in Jan. 10.