Sheriff's dept. hands out annual awards

MONTROSE - The Lee County Sheriff’s Office recently held its annual awards ceremony to recognize employees who demonstrated exceptional service, leadership, and dedication throughout the past year.
During the ceremony, the Sheriff’s Office presented awards for Correctional Officer of the Year, Deputy of the Year, Supervisor of the Year, and a Sheriff’s Commendation for Bravery, honoring those whose actions and commitment exemplify the highest standards of service to our agency and the citizens of Lee County.
Correctional Officer of the Year – Amber Lucas
Please help us congratulate Correctional Officer Amber Lucas on being named our 2025 Correctional Officer of the Year. She was selected for consistently demonstrating professionalism, initiative, and commitment to the mission of our facility, as well as for her reliability, sound judgment, and dedication to teamwork. Correctional Officer Lucas continually takes on additional responsibilities, often without being asked, and will assist wherever it is needed. Her continued contributions make a meaningful impact in our facility.
Deputy of the Year – Connor Marlin
Congratulations to Deputy Connor Marlin for being named the 2025 Deputy of the Year. His performance has clearly reflected dedication, initiative, and professionalism. Over the past year, he made 33 arrests, served 166 citations, and completed 163 civil papers. Deputy Marlin has willingly volunteered his time at community events and has received many compliments from both the public & department staff for his professional demeanor and positive communication. Deputy Marlin will be receiving the second K9 in 2026 for our agency.

Supervisor of the Year – Captain Matt Van Berkum
Please help us congratulate Captain Matt Van Berkum on being named our 2025 Supervisor of the Year. In 2025, Captain Van Berkum overhauled the firearms program at the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and is ensuring that our deputies are getting the best firearm training possible throughout the year. He is also a leader on the Special Response Team (SRT). The amount of support, empowerment, and respect he has for his guys is notable. Captain Van Berkum leads by example and always puts his deputies first. This recognition is a testament to the leadership, respect, and trust Captain Van Berkum has earned.
Sheriff’s Commendation for Bravery – Deputy Bryson Hennigar and Deputy Colin Crenshaw
Please help us commend Deputy Bryson Hennigar and Deputy Colin Crenshaw for their heroic actions on October 19, 2025.
On that date, these two deputies responded to a vehicle that had gone off the roadway and come to rest on an embankment. The vehicle was unsteadily balanced, supported only by a branch and a rock, with an individual trapped inside. Recognizing the imminent danger, Deputies Hennigar and Crenshaw acted without hesitation. Placing their own safety at risk, deputies worked together climbing onto the unstable vehicle to safely remove the trapped individual before the vehicle could shift or fall.
Their courage, quick decision-making, and selfless actions undoubtedly prevented a potential tragedy. Deputies Hennigar and Crenshaw demonstrated the highest standards of bravery and commitment to protecting the lives of others. Their actions exemplify what it means to serve with honor and dedication.
The Lee County Sheriff’s Office has awarded Deputy Bryson Hennigar and Deputy Colin Crenshaw with a Sheriff’s Commendation for Bravery and extends its deepest appreciation to both deputies for their valor and continued service to the citizens of Lee County.