News Release from Chief Edward Lacey, Ellijay, Gilmer County, GA, February 24, 2015:
Ellijay Police Department Officer of the Year recipient: Officer Jacob Chastain

In 2014, the Ellijay Police Department instituted an agency employee awards and recognition program. Of these awards is the Officer of the Year Award which we are proud to announce the first recipient.

The Officer of the Year award is an award that may be bestowed only once annually to a sworn full-time employee for outstanding achievement and performance in support of the agency’s stated mission, goals, and objectives. The officer must not have any sustained allegations of misconduct and must demonstrate by his or her actions support of the Agency’s core values, Vision and stated goals and objectives.

Officer Jacob Chastain was recommended to the Mayor for this award by the Police Chief and command staff of the Ellijay Police Department. During the February 24th City Council meeting, Officer Chastain was presented with a uniform pin and certificate along with an official Mayoral Proclamation. In this proclamation, Mayor Al Hoyle noted that Officer Chastain “has been a great asset to the agency and has increased and enhanced the agency’s organizational effectiveness in a manner that has clearly distinguished him from other employees”. The proclamation encourages, “all citizens to join me in acknowledging the success he has brought to the City of Ellijay and to the City of Ellijay Police Department.

Officer Chastain is married to his wife Valerie and they live in the City of Ellijay. Officer Chastain hopes to complete his Bachelor Degree this year.