SMYRNA, TN (WGNS) - The National Association of School Resource Officers has selected SRO Ali Albouhamed of the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office as its SRO of the Month for February, recognizing his courage, calm, and quick action during a life‑threatening situation at Stewarts Creek High School.
The incident happened in November, when Albouhamed responded to a call about a female student who had climbed onto a balcony and was threatening to jump. As he approached, the situation escalated in an instant. The student suddenly lunged toward the railing and began trying to climb over it. Albouhamed didn’t hesitate. He moved quickly, grabbing and restraining her before she could go over the edge.
Within moments, fellow SRO Aquarius Phillips arrived to assist. When the student made a second attempt to reach the railing, the two officers worked together to hold her safely and keep her from harming herself. Their teamwork and steady presence helped bring the crisis under control until additional support could arrive.
Officials say Albouhamed’s decisive response prevented a tragedy and protected a student in her most vulnerable moment. It’s the kind of intervention that often goes unseen outside school walls, but it’s central to the work SROs do every day—building trust, watching for warning signs, and stepping in when students need them most.
This isn’t the first time Albouhamed’s actions have been recognized. He was recently honored by the Murfreesboro NAACP with the Jerry Anderson Hero Award, named for the local football standout who lost his life in 1989 while saving two boys from drowning in the Stones River. The award celebrates courage, compassion, and a willingness to act when others are in danger—qualities Albouhamed demonstrated without hesitation.
Congratulations to SRO Albouhamed on this national honor, and thank you for your service to the students, families, and schools of Rutherford County.
