Hamilton County, TN – The week of May 2, 2021, has been designated as National Correctional Officers Week. During this time, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office will be celebrating and honoring the men and women of our Correctional Division for their service and dedicated efforts to keep our community’s inmates safe and secure.

“I am proud of the men and women of our Corrections Division who work tirelessly each day in a difficult and sometimes dangerous environment in order to keep our inmates safe,” stated Sheriff Jim Hammond. “Their job is a thankless one and this special week gives us the opportunity as a community to recognize the important and challenging work they do each and every day,” he further noted.

National Correctional Officers Week was originally began in 1984 when then-President Ronald Reagan issued Proclamation 5187 in which he called upon officials of state and local governments and the people of the United States to observe the first week of May with appropriate ceremonies and activities to recognize the contributions of our correctional personnel.

The HCSO currently employs (196) corrections Officers and civilian staff supporting the needs of the downtown Hamilton County Jail and the newly transitioned Silverdale Detention Center. Each day, HCSO Corrections Division personnel are responsible for the safety and wellbeing of over a thousand inmates.

“Our Corrections personnel are true professionals who are dedicated to serving their community and ensuring the safety of the inmates in their charge. While we often see our patrol deputies on the roadways, it is often easy to forget the sacrifices our corrections personnel make each and every day. National Correctional Officers week gives us the opportunity as a community and as an agency to thank them for their efforts and service,” stated Chief Deputy Austin Garrett.

As part of this week’s celebration, the HCSO Transition Team, which has been responsible for the ongoing Silverdale Transition efforts, will host a cookout for the Corrections Division as part of the HCSO’s appreciation for their service.

Please join us as we celebrate National Correctional Officers Week and thank those who serve in the downtown Hamilton County Jail and the Silverdale Detention Center.