Murfreesboro, TN — A quick-thinking deputy who prevented a potential tragedy at the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center has received national recognition for his bravery. Booking Deputy John Elliott was presented with the Valor Award by the American Jail Association (AJA) on Tuesday (5/22/2025) at the AJA Conference and Jail Expo in Fort Worth, Texas. The prestigious award is given to individuals who show extraordinary judgment, courage, and dedication in the line of duty.

Elliott earned the honor for his decisive actions during a routine booking in 2023, when he discovered a loaded handgun concealed on an incoming inmate. Acting without hesitation—and with complete disregard for his own safety—Elliott secured the firearm before anyone was harmed. The weapon contained 11 rounds.

"He had a gun and could have shot anybody," Elliott recalled. "I didn’t want that to happen. Anybody else in booking would have done the same thing."

Sheriff Mike Fitzhugh, who chairs the Tennessee Corrections Institute Board, praised Elliott’s swift response.

"We are extremely proud of Deputy Elliott for his quick action to avoid a potential disaster in our facility," Fitzhugh said. "He is very deserving of this recognition."

Jail Administrator Kevin Henderson echoed the sentiment, commending Elliott for his dedication to the job.

"To see something wrong, respond, and put your own safety at risk showed tremendous courage," Henderson said. "Who knows how many lives he saved due to his actions with total disregard for his own life? His actions were heroic."

Elliott’s commitment to security extends beyond a single moment—he also recovered a knife from an uncooperative and combative inmate in October 2023.

AJA recognized his persistence and dedication in ensuring the safety of staff and inmates, noting that his work exemplifies the bravery corrections officers display every day across the country.