LAFAYETTE – During the Chambers County Commissioners meeting in LaFayette on Monday, Sheriff Jeff Nelson recognized Captain Jeff Hinkle in advance of his upcoming retirement.
Captain Hinkle, who began his career with the Chambers County Sheriff’s Department in January 1998, has been a vital part of the community and is an avid Auburn fan. He was presented with a special plaque as a token of appreciation for his service.
“This award is presented to Captain Jeff Hinkle in grateful recognition of your dedication and honorable service to the Chambers County Sheriff’s Office and the citizens of our community from January 5, 1998, until May 31, 2026. This is just a small token of our gratitude for everything you have done for the Sheriff’s Department, the county, and the citizens. You’ve always been there for us. There are many things I have learned about what Jeff has done behind the scenes,” said Sheriff Nelson.
In addition to his role with the Sheriff’s Department, Hinkle assists with security at all Auburn games when he is not overseeing the investigative unit.
“Jeff has essentially designed the investigative unit and transformed it into what it is today, making arrests in places as far as New York and right here in Chambers County. He supervises the unit, ensuring the officers have the resources they need to perform their duties effectively,” Nelson remarked. “The sheriff is only as good as the men and women who work for him. They are the ones out on the streets fighting crime, and I am a better sheriff because of Captain Jeff Hinkle.”
Hinkle is not finished serving the people of Chambers County just yet.
“Jeff wants to work part-time with the Sheriff’s Department during his retirement for about a year, focusing on our misdemeanor cases. Jeff, thank you so much for everything you have done. I truly appreciate you. You’re a good man and an even better friend,” Nelson added.
