Hamilton County, TN - Today, Sheriff Jim Hammond honored several members of the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Division with formal recognition and commendations for going above and beyond the call of duty.

The following civilian and sworn personnel received challenge coins and commendation certificates from Sheriff Hammond:

• Charlotte Leann Garner

• Sergeant David Sowder

• Detective Rodger Brown

• Detective Robin Langford

• Detective Hank Ritter

• Sergeant Eliott Mahaffey

Mrs. Garner received her commendation for her assistance with solving the identity of a victim with little known next-of-kin by utilizing various tools and databases of which she has access, including public records and NCIC, as well as her sheer personal determination. The investigative work performed by Mrs. Garner not only allowed the HCSO CID division to notify the victim’s family in a timely manner, it also allowed the case to not be hindered by the lack of an unidentified victim.

Detectives' Sowder, Brown, Langford, Ritter, and Mahaffey, received their commendation for investigative work they performed regarding the fire investigation at Loftis Middle School. Their dedication and determination eventually led to the naming of suspects and arrests were made. Furthermore, these detectives worked diligently with members of the ATF as well to make sure the suspects were brought to justice. Not present below is Sgt. Eliott Mahaffey.

Please join with Sheriff Jim Hammond and members of the Command Staff as we honor these employees for their efforts to serve the citizens of Hamilton County and the HCSO.