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Warren County honors deputies and court security for handling of high‑profile trial
Summary
Fiscal Court read a letter of appreciation and presented coins to sheriff's deputies and court security personnel for their role in maintaining security during the Brooks Houck–Joey Lawson trial; a reporter's social‑media post singled out a deputy who assisted a nursing mother.
Warren County Fiscal Court on July 24 publicly recognized sheriff’s deputies and court security personnel for their role in providing security during the recent high‑profile Brooks Houck–Joey Lawson trial held at the Warren County Justice Center.
The court read a letter from Zach Ramsey (identified in the meeting as the director) commending the Warren County Sheriff's Office security officers and naming Lieutenant Jim Hyde, Deputy Barry Harris, Deputy James Parks, Deputy John Hussey, SRO Terrell Sharber and Deputy Colby Norris. The letter described the security operation as "flawlessly executed" and said the county team "exhibit[ed] outstanding professionalism."
Sheriff Hightower accepted the recognition and said deputies often arrived early to prepare, provided safety for judges, attorneys and the public, and made the event run smoothly without disrupting other court business. He noted that defense counsel had sent an appreciative email about the treatment received during the trial.
The court also read a social‑media post from reporter Shay McAllister that recounted a personal example of courthouse staff assistance: "The Warren County Justice Center bailiffs were beyond amazing, all of them... Being a working nursing mom outside of an office is next level. But this man went above and beyond to help me... He would open witness rooms, offices, conference rooms, and then lock the doors or stand on the other side of them to make sure I had privacy. He said it was no big deal. But to me, it meant everything. Long, hard days make it a bit easier. Thank you, James." The post was read into the record as a bailiff appreciation example.
Officials also noted a serious air‑conditioning issue at the Justice Center during the trial and said court staff and deputies worked behind the scenes to keep proceedings moving in difficult conditions. The county leases much of the Justice Center to the Administrative Office of the Courts, the court noted; the recognition came in the form of a formal letter, public commendation and presentation of coins to the named officers.
This item was a public recognition and did not involve a formal vote on policy or procurement.
