The Jefferson County sheriff’s office presented letters of commendation to several agency members in recognition of their service during an Oct. 15 drowning incident in the Arkansas River.
Letters were presented to investigators Kirsten Pennington, Kirsten Garner and Zach Sturdivant; Maj. Dennis Kendall; Reserve Deputy Phillip Tallent and Reserve Capt. Larry Potter.
Deputies responded to a report of a missing fisherman believed to have drowned that day, according to a news release. Chief Deputy Jimmy “Bo” Hudson oversaw the operation as those who assisted in the operation carried it out “with professionalism and careful precision throughout the response,” the sheriff’s office states.
It was later reported a 63-year-old man failed to check out from the Pine Bluff Arsenal’s online outdoor recreation application. His truck with a boat trailer was located at the river access boat ramp, and a boat with freshly caught fish was found a short distance off the dock with no sign of the man. His body was discovered the next morning.
“Through teamwork, persistence and a strong commitment to duty, the team successfully located the victim, providing much-needed answers and closure to the family and to our community,” the news release states. “Their professionalism, attention to detail and unwavering focus during a challenging operation exemplify the highest standards of law enforcement service.”
Jefferson County Sheriff Lafayette Woods Jr. commented that the letters are a formal recognition of dedication, skill and professionalism.
“Please join us in congratulating these individuals for their exceptional service and for bringing credit upon themselves and the Jefferson County sheriff’s office,” Woods said.