Murfreesboro, TN — A quick-thinking deputy who prevented a potential tragedy at the Rutherford County Adult Detention Center has received national recognition for his bravery. Booking Deputy John Elliott was presented with the Valor Award by the American Jail Association (AJA) on Tuesday (5/22/2025) at the AJA Conference and Jail Expo in Fort Worth, Texas. The prestigious award is given to individuals who show extraordinary judgment, courage, and dedication in the line of duty.
Elliott earned the honor for his decisive actions during a routine booking in 2023, when he discovered a loaded handgun concealed on an incoming inmate. Acting without hesitation—and with complete disregard for his own safety—Elliott secured the firearm before anyone was harmed. The weapon contained 11 rounds.
“He had a gun and could have shot anybody,” Elliott recalled. “I didn’t want that to happen. Anybody else in booking would have done the same thing.”
Sheriff Mike Fitzhugh, who chairs the Tennessee Corrections Institute Board, praised Elliott’s swift response…