Deputies Brian Myers and Richard Beckum Jr. from the Bulloch County Sheriff's Office, along with Officer Nicholas Sparks-Hoskins of the Statesboro Police Department, were honored as the 2024 Public Safety Officers of the Year during the annual awards banquet held Thursday night. This prestigious event recognized a total of 11 outstanding public safety officials nominated across various agencies.
A gathering of local leaders, including organizer Bird Hodges, hosted the 2024 Bulloch County Public Servants Awards Dinner on November 14, 2024 at the Kiwanis Community Building.
Deputies Myers and Beckum, along with Officer Sparks-Hoskins, earned this year’s top award for their valor during high-risk responses that could have ended in tragedy.
In addition to recognizing these three officers, the event celebrated the commitment and bravery of all nominees. Three additional honorees received the Meritorious Service Award, including Bulloch County Sheriff’s Captain Rick Rountree, Statesboro Police Department’s Terri Frost, and Georgia State Patrol Master Trooper Chris Cuddington.
Each public safety department selected an individual who has shown exemplary service. Hodges and his team provided a hearty meal from Ellis Meats and prepared to-go plates for public servants on duty who could not attend. Around 200 public safety officers attended, with 120 to-go plates delivered.
The awards committee, led by retired officials including Statesboro Police Chief Stan York, retired GBI SAC Charles Sikes, and Commissioner Jappy Stringer, carefully reviewed the nominees’ service and valor. This event, established in 1976, began awarding specific honors and has become a beloved annual tradition of gratitude for those who keep our community safe. Assisting Hodges with the event is John Smith, Ricky Helton, Laura Moore and the Deal’s Funeral Directors team.
Recognizing Heroic Service and Dedication
Deputies Brian Myers and Richard Beckum Jr. (Bulloch County Sheriff's Office)
On June 18, 2024, Deputies Brian Myers and Richard Beckum Jr. responded to a series of escalating events that began with a hit-and-run and evolved into a dangerous active shooter situation at the Gas Pro truck stop on Highway 301. The suspect, firing randomly at bystanders, posed an immediate threat to the public. The deputies arrived swiftly, coordinating to box in the suspect's vehicle and prevent further harm. As Deputy Beckum approached from the front and Myers from the rear, the suspect fired at Myers, narrowly missing him but endangering bystanders inside the gas station. Myers and Beckum returned fire, neutralizing the suspect before he could harm others. Sheriff Noel Brown praised their courage, noting that “their immediate response likely saved numerous lives and prevented a potential mass shooting incident.” Both deputies have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to training, often attending advanced classes and voluntarily participating in open range days.
Officer Nicholas Sparks-Hoskins (Statesboro Police Department)
Officer Sparks-Hoskins displayed exceptional bravery and quick thinking on April 18, 2024, when responding to an incident at the Copper Beech apartment complex. Fellow officer Joey DeLoach had confronted a car prowler who unexpectedly opened fire, injuring DeLoach and severing a major artery. Sparks-Hoskins, first on the scene, applied a life-saving tourniquet to DeLoach’s leg and assisted in rushing him to the emergency room. Medical professionals later confirmed that his prompt actions directly saved DeLoach's life. Statesboro Police Chief Mike Broadhead commended Sparks-Hoskins for his calm under pressure, describing his response as “an extraordinary demonstration of skill, professionalism, and dedication to his fellow officers.”
Meritorious Service Award Honorees
The committee presented the Medal of Meritorious award to Bulloch County Sheriff's Captain Rick Roundtree, Statesboro Police Department's Terri Frost and Georgia State Patrol Master Tooper Chris Cuddington
Terri Frost (Statesboro Police Department)
With over 40 years at the Statesboro Police Department, Ms. Frost has been a vital part of SPD’s detective division. Starting as a dispatcher, she eventually took on the role of Administrative Assistant, using her extensive knowledge of the community to assist detectives with affidavits and case preparation. Her dedication and keen insight have made her an irreplaceable asset to the department, supporting countless investigations and helping SPD build stronger cases.
Master Trooper Chris Cuddington (Georgia State Patrol)
Known as one of Southeast Georgia’s longest-serving SWAT team members, Trooper Cuddington has dedicated more than three decades to public safety. After overcoming a knee replacement in 2016, he returned to full active duty, continuing to serve with courage and dedication. He regularly participates in local career days, sharing the SWAT experience with students, and is recognized for his mentorship of younger troopers. His commitment to community service and resilience under challenging circumstances make him a distinguished recipient of this award.
Captain Rick Rountree (Bulloch County Sheriff's Office)
With a career spanning over three decades, Captain Rountree’s contributions to law enforcement began with the United States Air Force and continued in civilian policing. After joining the Bulloch County Sheriff's Office in 1997, he recognized the need for a dedicated drug enforcement unit to combat the growing narcotics issue. Working alongside Sheriff Arnold Ray Akins, Rountree played a key role in establishing a drug unit and helped form one of the first SWAT teams in Bulloch County. In his role as Professional Standards Captain, he ensured high standards in training, equipment readiness, and officer conduct, leaving a legacy that will impact Bulloch County for years to come.
Public Safety Officer Nominees
The ceremony also honored nominees from each agency, acknowledging their dedication and service to the community:
Lt. Brian Mcree (Bulloch County Fire Department)
Lt. Mcree has shown exceptional leadership and dedication, leading the department’s competitive teams and setting a high standard for physical fitness. Recently certified as a Georgia Smoke Diver—a prestigious title—Mcree exemplifies the grit and resilience of Bulloch’s firefighting team. He is also a dedicated family man and community leader, participating in memorial events and helping mentor new firefighters.
Lt. Brian Fitzgerald (Bulloch County EMS)
Assistant Shift Supervisor Fitzgerald’s commitment to EMS shines through his numerous certifications and role in training fellow paramedics. Known for his steady hand under pressure, Fitzgerald has contributed to community outreach efforts and has consistently gone above and beyond in his dedication to patient care and EMS standards.
Special Agent Elizabeth Strickland (Georgia Bureau of Investigation)
Special Agent Strickland has spent 18 years with the GBI, including 14 in drug enforcement. Facing personal challenges this year, she demonstrated resilience, emerging even stronger in her commitment to the community. Her steadfast dedication to Bulloch County and her professionalism in investigations make her a valuable asset to the GBI and the community.
Corporal Ryan McBride (Georgia Southern University Department of Public Safety)
Corporal McBride is a U.S. Army veteran and Field Training Officer recognized for his leadership and bravery. In April, he played a critical role in stabilizing Officer DeLoach after a shooting incident, helping ensure DeLoach’s safe transport to medical care. His dedication to the GSU community and his willingness to assist local agencies have earned him numerous commendations.
Trooper Christian Clark (Georgia State Patrol)
Trooper Clark is recognized for his valor during a high-speed pursuit of an armed robbery suspect. Despite the risks, Clark executed a precise PIT maneuver, ending the pursuit and preventing further danger to the public. His decisive actions under pressure have made a significant impact on the safety of Bulloch County.
Captain Rabon Hutchinson (Statesboro Fire Department)
Starting as a volunteer in 2011, Captain Hutchinson has risen through the ranks, earning multiple commendations, including the department’s Medal of Valor. Known for his dedication to training and mentorship, he has been instrumental in the department’s recruit training program and is a respected leader within the SFD.
Alexis Wilson (Bulloch County 911)
As Shift Supervisor, Wilson has taken on a leadership role since joining Bulloch 911 in 2021. With a background in the National Guard, she brings a disciplined and service-oriented mindset, continually striving to make Bulloch 911 one of the best in the area. Her commitment to excellence has made her a standout in the field.
John Pulte (Air Evac Lifeteam 95)
With over 13 years in EMS, including seven with Air Evac, Pulte serves as Base Clinical Lead. Known for his dedication to patient care and leadership, he has become a vital part of Air Evac 95 in Statesboro, consistently delivering excellent service.
Bulloch County Outstanding Public Servant Officer of the Year recipients
- Tracy L. Miller - Bulloch County Sheriff Department - 2018
- Robert L. Scott, Jr. - Georgia State Patrol - 2019
- Merritt Kerns - Statesboro Fire Department - 2020
- Bobby Durden - Bulloch County Sheriff Department - 2020
- Stephen Herndon - Bulloch County Sheriff Department - 2021
- Bobby Ivey - Bulloch County EMS and Portal P.D. - 2021
- Katie Hodges - Georgia Southern University Department of Public Safety - 2022
- Austin Williams - Bulloch County Sheriff's Office Deputies - 2023
- Walter French - Bulloch County Sheriff's Office - 2023
- Brian Myers - Bulloch County Sheriff's Office - 2024
- Richard Beckum Jr., - Bulloch County Sheriff's Office - 2024
- Nicholas Sparks-Hoskins - Statesboro Police Department - 2024
Public Safety Retired
Bird Hodges recognized members of public safety who retired since last year.
- Bill T. Akers, GBI
- Laura McCullough, GS Police
- Ted Wynn, Bulloch County Public Safety
- Lee Eckles, Bulloch County Public Safety
- Doug Vickers, Bulloch County EMS
In Memoriam
The awards dinner also honored public servants who have passed since last year’s gathering. Each was remembered with a service award, and family members accepted the honors on their behalf:
Gene “Lightening” Fletcher, Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office, 15 years of service
Herman Richardson, Leefield Fire Department, 1988-2004
William Ray Cannon, Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office, 1985-2016
These fallen heroes were remembered for their service and dedication to Bulloch County. The event’s somber yet grateful atmosphere underscored the commitment of those who serve, the sacrifices they make, and the strength of our community.
Live stream of the awards ceremony
