President Teddy Roosevelt said, "If I must choose between righteousness and peace, I choose righteousness."

As sheriff, I take my duty of protecting the citizens of our community to heart. As a man of faith, I am especially sensitive to any action that diminishes one’s ability to worship in freedom without fear of any aggressor.

Therefore, in light of increased incidents of violence perpetrated against churches across the nation, I am using the powers of my office to establish the BCSO Special Deputy Church Protection Program for Bradley County.  I am doing so to enhance a church’s ability to protect and defend the sanctity of their worship against armed intrusion and/or attack on church premises prior to the arrival of full-time law enforcement upon the scene

As sheriff, I have the authority to appoint special deputies who are assigned specific law enforcement functions, whether working alone or with full-time deputy sheriffs.

Special deputies working in the BCSO Special Deputy Church Protection Program must meet all the same minimum qualifications as a full-time deputy sheriff, but are not required to attend a police academy. They must successfully complete a background investigation and required training hours each year to maintain their appointment.  

Any church desiring special deputies under this program must request the appointment of well-known, regularly attending members in good standing, who are trustworthy, mature and responsible. The church elders or other church governing body must sponsor the candidates in writing. Because of training requirements this program is currently limited to two participants per church and the organization must meet 501(c)(3) requirements. The church must have a physical meeting location for at least the last 12 months and an attendance of at least 50 people. The BCSO will make the final determination as to acceptance into this program.

I believe in the right of the innocent to defend themselves. That is why I am giving area churches this opportunity.

For more information and to obtain an application packet contact the BCSO at 423-728-7300, download the application packet from the "Volunteer Programs" section on our web-site at www.bradleysheriff.com, or come by Justice Center.