The Town of Smithfield and Smithfield Police Department recognized Patrol Officer Michael Jernigan as their 2020 Officer of the Year. Officer Jernigan was honored during the July meeting of the town council.
Police Captain James Grady made the presentation to Officer Jernigan. Jernigan has been with the department for 4 years. He has worked in the patrol division and is currently working as a K-9 handler.
Prior to working with the police department, Jernigan spent 10 years as a military police officer.
Captain Grady said members of the police department nominate officers for the award. Once nominated, team commanders vote on the nominations on who will receive the award. The police chief then gives the final approval.
Grady said Jernigan is always willing to go above and beyond in the performance of his duties.
