by Sheriff Jeremy Shipley
This afternoon our office held our end of the year (2023) meeting. It was one of the best years as far as crime and serving our citizens that we have had in my 7 years as Sheriff. This success is a direct contribution from the employees that the FCSO is blessed to have working in all areas of our office. It’s a privilege to get to work with our law enforcement employees that truly care about what they do and for the citizens they serve and protect.
We had 3 individuals from our office that deserved recognition for their contributions over the last year that helped make 2023 a good year for Freestone County:
1) FCSO Employee of the Year – Deputy Larry Jones
Deputy Jones is our Courthouse Deputy and oversees the security of the courthouse, the courts, and all the employees within. He knows every move made inside and around the perimeter of the courthouse as he watches the security cameras. He greets everyone at the door to provide direction on what they may need and where they need to go. And, above all, he is very well loved and appreciated by the courthouse staff. He does an excellent job and we’re privileged to have Deputy Jones as a part of our team.
2) FCSO Deputy of the Year – Deputy Jimmy Pickens
Deputy Pickens (at top) is one of our Patrol Deputies. Deputy Pickens is as solid and consistent as they come. To put it simple, he handles business. He’s quick to respond, to do what’s needed or asked, and he does his very best to protect and serve the people of our county. He has a heart for the people and his co-workers, and it shows in his work. It’s an honor to work beside Deputies like Deputy Pickens because you know he’s always striving to do what’s good and what’s right, and he’s always got your back.
3) Life Saving Award – Deputy Scott Leatherman
On May 11, 2023, Deputy Leatherman responded to a one vehicle accident with entrapment. Upon arrival Deputy Leatherman observed the vehicle on fire and began assisting a couple good Samaritans in trying to extinguish the vehicle fire. As the fire extinguisher ran out and the vehicle was still catching fire, Deputy Leatherman began trying to get the driver out of the car who was wedged between the front driver’s seat and the dash in the floorboard. Multiple attempts of battling smoke and having to walk away and get air and go back were made before Deputy Leatherman was able to pull the injured driver from the vehicle and fire. Deputy Leatherman’s heroism, bravery, and swift thinking, undoubtedly prevented further injury or possible death. We applaud these heroic efforts that bring great credit to himself and to the FCSO.
As the Sheriff, I’m proud to employ these great individuals and all the other employees that contribute so much to the well-being of our county. Freestone County is truly blessed with caring individuals and we’re lucky to have many of them working right here for the FCSO.
God Bless our law enforcement and continue to keep them safe in 2024.
