Dale Phipps, Interim Chief of Police

200 Shelby Street • Kingsport, TN 37660

http://Police.KingsportTN.gov • www.KingsportPDBlog.com

On May 4, 2020 Officers Nathan Russell and Keener Burke encountered a teenager who had attempting to commit suicide by inflicting serious self-injury. The officers applied direct pressure and first aid to the life-threatening wounds. For their efforts, Officers Russell and Burke have been presented with the Life Saving Medal.

On May 22, 2020 Patrol Officer and Bomb Squad Commander George Horne completed 25 years of dedicated devotion to the Kingsport Police Department. For his continued commitment to duty, honor, and service, Officer Horne has been presented with the Distinguished Service Medal.

On May 22, 2020 Public Information Officer Tom Patton completed 25 years of dedicated devotion to the Kingsport Police Department. For his continued commitment to duty, honor, and service, Officer Patton has been presented with the Distinguished Service Medal.

On May 23, 2020 Officer Jesse Altman encountered an individual who had overdosed on drugs. Finding him unresponsive and not breathing, he administered a dose of Narcan and began chest compressions prior to the arrival of EMS, who then transported the individual to an area hospital for continued treatment. For his actions, Officer Altman has been presented with the Life Saving Award.

On June 6, 2020 Corporal David Johnson was wounded in the line of duty, in the form of a partially, yet permanently, severed finger, while engaged in the arrest of an inebriated and aggressive suspect. Corporal Johnson continued to effect the arrest, even while enduring excruciating pain. For his efforts and consequent serious injury sustained during this violent encounter, Corporal Johnson has been presented with the Purple Heart.

On August 10, 2020 Officers Dakota Benton, Ben DeGreen, and Hunter Hite encountered a man who was in medical distress and appeared to be suffering from a drug overdose. These officers administered doses of Narcan and began chest compressions prior to the arrival of EMS, who then provided advanced life support. For their actions, Officers Benton, DeGreen, and Hite have been presented with the Life Saving Medal.

On August 14, 2020 Corporal Terry Hughes negotiated the peaceful surrender of a woman contemplating suicide so that the woman was able to receive the appropriate medical and mental health assistance. For her actions, Corporal Hughes has been presented with a Certificate of Commendation.

On September 11, 2020 Lieutenant Justin Quillin completed 25 years of dedicated devotion to the Kingsport Police Department. For his continued commitment to duty, honor, and service, Lieutenant Quillin has been presented with the Distinguished Service Medal.

On January 8, 2021 Lieutenant Steve Hammonds completed 25 years of dedicated devotion to the Kingsport Police Department. For his continued commitment to duty, honor, and service, Lieutenant Hammonds has been presented with the Distinguished Service Medal.

Photographs of these Officers receiving their awards will be featured on the Kingsport Police Department’s various social media platforms. Please join us as we thank these Officers for their exemplary service and applaud them for a job well done.

Kingsport Police Department Professional Standards Unit

423-229-9433 (Desk) • 423-343-9749 (FAX)

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