Hamilton County, TN – Earlier this morning, Sheriff Austin Garrett and HCSO Deputy Chief of Corrections Shaun Shepherd presented Corrections Deputy Aziza Williams with a commendation for her efforts to save the life of an unresponsive inmate at the Hamilton County Jail & Detention Center on August 23, 2023.

Whereas, on August 23, 2023 at approximately 11:00 am, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office Corrections Deputy Aziza Williams was serving in Alpha Unit at the Hamilton County Jail & Detention Center when she observed an unresponsive inmate. She immediately called for medical assistance and notified her supervision of the situation.

Upon arrival of additional corrections personnel, Deputy Williams was observed attempting to clear a pathway in order to move the inmate out of the unit to receive medical treatment. In order to remove the inmate, Deputy Williams and Corrections Sergeant Jeremy Poteet each grabbed a corner of the mattress and safely dragged the inmate out of the cell into the hallway.

Once the door of the cell was shut closed, Deputy Williams grabbed gloves and Sergeant Poteet immediately began CPR until additional medical personnel could arrive. Deputy Williams then switched with Sergeant Poteet and continued to perform CPR while medical personnel worked with the inmate. Deputy Williams would continue to assist with patient care by utilizing an AM-BU bag giving breaths to the inmate while other medical personnel continued CPR. Deputy Williams would continue to assist with breathing for the inmate until EMS arrived and the inmate was taken to a local hospital for additional medical treatment.

Due to Deputy Williams keeping a check of her unit and the inmates in her charge, along with her capable medical assistance performing CPR and utilization of the AM-BU bag, the inmate was found and was able to receive the medical treatment needed.

The dedication and professionalism shown by Corrections Deputy Williams exemplifies the role of a dedicated public servant and are in keeping with the highest standards of the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office.

Please join with us as we recognize her extraordinary efforts to help save the life of this inmate and thank her for her service to the HCSO and the citizens of Hamilton County.