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Staff report

The Bladen County Sheriff’s Office held its 2025 Awards Ceremony on April 3 at 10 a.m., recognizing outstanding personnel for their exceptional service, dedication, and courage. The event occurred at the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office in Elizabethtown, NC.

The ceremony began with a warm welcome from Joe Cotton, followed by an invocation led by Chaplain Warren Hill. Captain Jeff Tyler led attendees in the Pledge of Allegiance before Sheriff James A. McVicker gave opening remarks. Chief Deputy Morgan Johnson recognized the families and friends whose support helped make the achievements of these public servants possible.

Mr. Joe Cotton announced this year’s award winners and commented on why each person was nominated for the recognition. The following are the 2025 BCSO award winners:

Detention Officer of the Year: Corporal Tiffany Bagwell

One team member who nominated Cpl. Bagwell for the award explained Cpl. Bagwell has shown every day that I have worked with her that she is a strong leader. She is very knowledgeable and takes the initiative to step up whenever help is needed.

Cpl. Bagwell accepted the award, stating, “This is truly an honor. I am humbled and grateful to receive this award, and I’m incredibly excited. It’s an honor to serve the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office and the residents of Bladen County.”

Telecommunicator of the Year: Director Beth Singletary

One of the nominators stated, “Beth has done an awesome job going from a shift employee to Director PSAP Coordinator. She has started moving the center forward in a positive manner.”

In response to winning the award, Director Singletary explained since 1999, the BCSO has held wonderful meanings for her and her family. She is proud to serve the Mother County.

Administrative Employee of the Year: Ashleigh Hunt

Ms. Hunt was nominated because she “works tirelessly every day to make sure everyone’s IT needs are met. Ashleigh goes above and beyond to help…”

Ms. Hunt responded to the announcement of the award by stating, “To be recognized as Administrative Employee of the Year is an honor. It lets me know I am appreciated, and my work here doesn’t go unnoticed.”

Deputy of the Year: Deputy Michael Lashley

Deputy Lashley’s nominations included these remarks: “I would like to nominate Deputy Micheal Lashley for the Deputy of the Year Award. Deputy Lashlee is the epitome of a great deputy and also a great friend. He is always willing to learn and obtain new certificates. No matter what life throws at him, he takes it on the chin as a learning lesson and moves on with his work. Lashley really sets the bar high on how we should conduct ourselves and represent Bladen County Sheriff’s Office.”

Deputy Lashley said, “Serving with the Bladen County Sheriff’s Office is a privilege that words cannot fully express. I am deeply grateful to Sheriff Jim McVicker for giving me the opportunity to serve the citizens of Bladen County.”

Several individuals were honored for specific acts of heroism and dedicated service:

Meritorious Service Award: Amanda Sykes

This award is for performance that goes above and beyond the call of duty, enhancing public safety, community involvement, and effectiveness in crime prevention and service delivery.

Lifesaving Award:

Deputy Kenneth Lemaster

Corporal Robert Hebert

Sergeant Korey Bryant

Corporal Amber Michalek

Deputy Brett Sasser

These recipients took immediate and effective action to save lives, demonstrating bravery and commitment to protecting others.

Commendations:

Sergeant Jennifer Popynick

Sergeant Tim Hester

Corporal Kenneth Grice

Deputy Marcus Hands

Supervisor Aspen Batten

Telecommunicator Dana Swigert

Telecommunicator Jessica House

These individuals are recognized for exemplary service and professionalism in their roles.

Before closing remarks, Captain Richard Allen honored the critical behind-the-scenes work of the county’s dedicated communications personnel.

Sheriff McVicker closed the ceremony by expressing gratitude for his team’s hard work and sacrifice. Pastor Warren Hill’s benediction concluded the event, reminding all in attendance of the strength of unity, service, and faith.