The Jemison Police Department presented Sgt. Randy Morris Jr. with the 2012 Officer Donald “Josh” Newman Officer of the Year Award at the department’s annual Christmas dinner Dec. 17, 2012.

Morris is the second officer to receive the award bearing the name of the department’s former officer who died in a car accident while on duty March 5, 2011.

Officer Riley Barnett received the award in 2011.

Morris has been with the Jemison Police Department for more than 10 years.

“It’s been a great experience,” Morris said. “I started in 2001. I’ve seen a lot of people come and go. I’ve enjoyed every minute of it.”

JPD Chief Shane Fulmer said Morris has displayed a consistent work ethic ever since he became an officer.

“His entire career has been spent here, dedicating his service to Jemison from day one,” Fulmer said. “I am very proud to have Sgt. Morris as a part of our staff and really appreciate his work ethic and hard work in providing public safety to our city and citizens.”

Along with his normal job duties as a police officer and supervisor, Morris serves as the department’s K-9 officer and firearms instructor.

He is also certified in Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) as an active member of the tactical unit that consists of officers with the Jemison and Clanton police departments.

“I call him a workhorse around here,” Fulmer said. “While working 12-hour shifts, he is constantly working from the start of his shift until he gets off. A lot of times, he is out working before his shift starts and sometimes not finishing up until after his scheduled off time.

“He dedicates himself to our profession and to the city of Jemison and its citizens.”