The Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office recently celebrated the Christmas season with its annual Christmas dinner and awards night, recognizing employees for outstanding performance and lifesaving actions.

“We had a great Christmas dinner and annual awards night. I would like to thank each employee for the job that you do,” Sheriff Mark A. Schrader said. “Also, a special thank you to the ladies that got our night and dinner ready!”

Sheriff Schrader said it is an honor to recognize those who go above and beyond in serving the community.

“It is a great honor to present awards to those that go above and beyond serving the great people of Chattooga County,” Schrader said. “I am honored to serve alongside these men and women in delivering law enforcement related services to this county.”

Award recipients recognized:

Jail Officer of the Quarter: Quintin Patterson
Sheriff’s officials say Patterson is an asset to the jail and consistently does an excellent job. He was selected by Captain Derek Mitchell, Jail Administrator.

Jail Officer of the Year (2025): Lt. Maddi Rosser
Rosser, recently promoted to lieutenant, was recognized for her dedication and willingness to go above and beyond. The Sheriff’s Office noted the “Officer of the Year” awards are voted on by peers and fellow employees.

Patrol Division Officer of the Year (2025): Cpl. Gene Whitworth
Whitworth was honored for his leadership and service as a long-time law enforcement officer, supervisor, and deputy sheriff. This award was also voted on by fellow employees.

Life-Saver Award: Investigator Daniel Sanford
Sanford received a Life-Saver Award for actions taken during a house fire. Officials say he found a way to make entry, located the homeowner, attempted to get him out, and stayed with him until firefighters could reach him. Due to physical limitations, the homeowner was unable to exit on his own, and the Sheriff’s Office says Sanford’s actions helped save his life.

Life-Saver Awards: Jail Officers Dawson Yarbrough and Alex Freeman
Yarbrough and Freeman were recognized for their quick response and professional conduct while assisting an inmate who attempted to take his life. Officials say their actions undoubtedly saved the inmate’s life.

Captain Eddie Stroup “Service Above Self” Award: Investigator Daniel Sanford
Sanford also received the annual Captain Eddie Stroup “Service Above Self” Award, given in honor and remembrance of Capt. Eddie Stroup for an employee who demonstrates selfless service throughout the year. The Sheriff’s Office cited Sanford’s response to the house fire—entering the burning home without protective gear or a breathing apparatus, locating the trapped homeowner, and staying with him until help arrived—as an example of service above self.