In a recent announcement on social media, the Murfreesboro Police Department shared news of leadership changes within its ranks. Police Chief Michael Bowen recognized the advancement of six officers, including the promotion of two sergeants to the rank of lieutenant and four others reaching sergeant status. The department displayed their appreciation for the newly appointed leaders with an official ceremony on October 17th.
Sergeants Sean Garrison and Travis Ledford have reached lieutenant—a significant step in their law enforcement careers. Promoted alongside them were Officers Carlie Coe, Justin Fugate, Jessica Hawkins, and Ben Leibach, all of whom ascended to the position of sergeant. Speaking to the character and service of these individuals, Chief Bowen remarked, "These employees have served our community with professionalism and integrity." According to the Murfreesboro TN Police Department's social media post, the department boasts a bevy of seasoned officers well-equipped to tackle the responsibilities their new ranks entail.
Lt. Garrison, having joined the force back in 2004, boasts an extensive background, which includes his role as a field training officer and detective-sergeant over the Violent Crimes Unit. Among the promoted officers, he has a notable educational achievement; he earned a Bachelor of Science from Middle Tennessee State University and now pursues a Master of Theology. Newly minted Lt. Ledford, starting his tenure in 2011, has also built a robust profile, notably contributing as a narcotics detective in the Special Investigations Section and supervising the Violent Crimes Unit in CID.
As for the newly promoted sergeants, Officer Coe, a specialist in the U.S. Army National Guard before joining the department, and an assistant commander of the Fatal Accident Crash Team at MPD, has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to her role. Sgt. Fugate brings his experience as a U.S. Marine Corps veteran to the team, coupled with his credentials in various investigative schools. Sgt. Hawkins, joining back in 2011, adds value with her participation on multiple teams, including CIT and Honor Guard. And Sgt. Leibach, with a military background similar to Fugate, has been a K-9 handler for patrol and the COPS Unit, further enhancing the department's skill set.
These promotions not only symbolize personal achievements but also represent the evolving leadership landscape of the Murfreesboro Police Department. Recognizing the complex fabric of our community's safety net, the MPD celebrated this momentous occasion at the department headquarters, solidifying the officers' commitment to serving and protecting their community with renewed vigor.
