MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS) - The Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office is celebrating a major achievement after being recognized by the Tennessee Highway Safety Office with two top awards in this year’s Law Enforcement Challenge. The agency earned First Place among departments with 201–500 officers and was also named the Highest‑Scoring Sheriff’s Office overall in the statewide competition.

The Law Enforcement Challenge highlights agencies that go above and beyond in improving traffic safety. That includes everything from public education and community outreach to officer training and enforcement aimed at reducing crashes, injuries, and fatalities on Tennessee roads. It’s a program that rewards consistent, documented effort — something Rutherford County deputies have been steadily building over the past year.

Sheriff Kenneth Barrett said the recognition reflects the daily work of the men and women who patrol county roads and respond to traffic incidents. Their efforts, he noted, help keep residents safer and reinforce the department’s commitment to responsible, proactive policing.

A special nod went to Sergeant Austin Watson, who spent the past year making sure every event, training session, and enforcement initiative was properly documented. That attention to detail helped the Sheriff’s Office stand out in the statewide competition and secure the top honors.

The department says it is proud of the accomplishment and grateful for the deputies who put their training to work every day. From DUI enforcement to seat‑belt awareness campaigns, their efforts continue to make a measurable difference on local roadways.

For Rutherford County, the awards serve as both recognition and motivation — a reminder that steady, focused work can save lives and strengthen community trust.