Collegedale police officers and city leaders came together Thursday night for an awards banquet that honored the hard work and dedication of many officers in the department.
Hosted by the Chattanooga Elks Lodge #91, the program consisted of a recognition of the banquet’s special guests, remarks from Mayor Katie Lamb, a catered dinner, the awards presentation, and a cake presentation.
The night ended with the promotion of agency leader Jack Sapp to chief of police by City Manager Wayon Hines. Chief Sapp has served as the department’s interim chief since January.
Officers were presented with longevity awards for their years of service to the city of Collegedale. Numerous officers received awards representing five, 10, 15, 20, and 25 years of service.
Sergeant Jamie Heath was recognized by receiving the J. Edgar Hoover Memorial Award from the American Police Hall of Fame. The award is given to law enforcement officers who have successfully completed additional training to garner new skills in the field of criminal justice. It also recognizes officers who continually seek a lifetime of education and advancement. Sergeant Heath is only the fifth officer to have earned this award in the State of Tennessee.
Other awards were also presented from the American Police Hall of Fame.
Life Saving Awards were given to Cpl. Sheila Strange, Officers Chase Janow and Julia Arrowood, and retired Reserve Sgt. Joe Greenleaf for their actions while in the line of duty.
The Criminal Investigation Award was given to Asst. Chief Jeff Young, Lt. Burlon Hayworth, Sgt. Jamie Heath, Detective Robert O’Daniel, Cpl. Cory McNeal, and Officers Julia Arrowood, Chase Janow, and Sammy Previlus. Among some of the cases solved by these officers were a multi-state fraud ring, a series of auto burglaries, and an armed robbery.
The Merit Award for Excellent Arrest was given to Lt. Burlon Hayworth and Officer Robert Hirko for their work in capturing a violent felon.
Detective Robert O’Daniel was recognized again with a General Commendation Award for his efforts in reaching out to the youth in the community with a successful Junior Police Academy program.
After receiving his permanent appointment as Collegedale’s Chief of Police, Chief Sapp encouraged his officers in his closing speech while also acknowledging the challenges that his agency has endured over the past year or so. “Despite all that, you leaned into the wind and challenged the storm. You persevered. You did exactly what I expected you to do. You stood tall, suited up, and came to work with pride and professionalism. So thank you. Thank you for being the best.”