LEE COUNTY (May 1, 2026) – Earlier today, Lee County Sheriff’s Office held an awards ceremony, recognizing sixteen employees along with presenting one community recognition award.
Sheriff Jay Jones emphasized the devotion of these award recipients to helping the Lee County community: “One of the most significant actions we take is to recognize the selfless service of the men and women who dedicate themselves to serve others. These award recipients represent the very best of their profession and even when placed in situations of high risk, they stand directly in harm’s way to protect the citizens of Lee County. We are very proud of them.”
Employee of the Quarter, July – September 2025: Deputy Chad Stancil
Employee of the Quarter, October – December 2025: Taran Sumner
Employee of the Quarter, January – March 2026: Corporal Josh Walton
2025 Employee of the Year: Investigator Shawn McDevitt
2025 James Anderson Award: Sergeant Justin Johnson
Established in 2010 and awarded in conjunction with the City of Smiths Station, the Deputy James Anderson Award recognizes members of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office staff who exemplify the commitment to the profession of public safety and the dedication to service of the citizens of Lee County as demonstrated by Deputy Sheriff James W. Anderson. One award is given per year.
Sheriff’s Distinguished Medal: Sergeant Justin Johnson, Investigator Matt Parks, Deputy Daulton Garnett, Deputy AJ Hussey, Deputy Vincent Lopez, Deputy Trey Oswalt
This award is given to a member of the Sheriff’s Office who through the performance of his/her duties is placed in significant risk of bodily injury or is injured in the line of duty under honorable conditions.
Sheriff’s Meritorious Service Award: Lieutenant Jacob Cook
This is awarded to a member of the Sheriff’s Office for an idea, act or device submitted and accepted which demonstrates an exemplary display of leadership, initiative or innovation. The award recognizes that the individual identified a need and implemented a remedy which significantly contributed to the furtherance of the mission of the Lee County Sheriff’s Office.
Sheriff’s Achievement Award: Investigator Shawn McDevitt
This award is given to a member of the Sheriff’s Office who, in the normal course of their duties, goes above and beyond the scope of those duties, in an act or series of acts that significantly benefits the victim(s) of a case. Additionally, the act(s) creates a strong benefit of public safety for the community or significantly impacts the level of customer service to the community. Or, who demonstrates an exceptionally sustained level of performance, going above and beyond the normal scope of their duties.
Life Saving Medal: Lieutenant Jacob Cook, Corporal Josh Walton, Investigator Andrew Hammond, Deputy Jeremy Brightwell, Deputy Scott Cone, Deputy Jonathan Kennedy, Deputy Manuel Stone
This is awarded to a member of the Sheriff’s Office who, through an extraordinary effort, contributes to the saving of a human life. Additionally, the member’s actions significantly assist the lifesaving effort and based on the totality of the circumstances, death seems imminent.
Community Recognition Award: Punishers LEMC Big Swamp
This award recognizes an entire community organization or unit for extraordinary service or support to the Sheriff’s Office and community.
