Congratulations are in order for Deputy Chris Byrum of the Union County Sheriff’s Office, who has been recognized as the 2024 Union County Crime Stoppers Law Enforcement Officer of the Year. The distinction was awarded to Deputy Byrum during the annual Crime Stoppers BBQ at the Ag Center, where he was celebrated by members of the community and colleagues alike, according to the Union County Sheriff’s Office website.
Deputy Byrum, who has been a steadfast presence at Weddington High School since 2015 as the School Resource Officer, was commended for an incident last year where his quick thinking saved the life of a student who was choking. His vigilance and readiness to act, has not only made him a hero in the eyes of many but also earned him additional recognition as both the UCPS School Resource Officer of the Year and the C.C. McGee School Resource Officer of the Year for North Carolina in 2022.
Crime Stoppers President Reid Helms presented the award to Deputy Byrum, an event, encapsulating a career marked by diligence and a commitment to the safety of students and faculty at the high school. Fellow officers and the community gathered to acknowledge Deputy Byrum’s contributions, which extend beyond the confines of the educational institution he serves.
The honors bestowed upon Deputy Byrum serve as a reflection of the pivotal role school resource officers can play in shaping safe and supportive learning environments. With a track record that speaks to his dedication, Deputy Byrum has set a benchmark for law enforcement within the educational sector. The Union County Sheriff's Office invites everyone to share in this moment of pride, and to join them in applauding Deputy Byrum for the well-deserved recognition.
