FARMINGTON — A Franklin County deputy was recognized twice Tuesday, first as Deputy of the Quarter and second as Deputy of the Year.

Franklin County Sheriff Scott Nichols Sr. presented the awards to Kevin Hartley of Anson during the county commissioners meeting.

He has done an “exceptional job” working on patrol since he was hired 18 months ago, Nichols said.

Hartley had served on a municipal law enforcement agency for nearly 10 years before he was hired in Franklin County.

In regards to the Deputy of the Year award, Lt. David Rackliffe said, “Kevin has exercised his extensive knowledge of criminal, traffic and civil law and shared that knowledge with both seasoned and new officers since coming here. Kevin is continuously active, whether responding to complaints or pursuing self-initiated activities. He is always willing to put in overtime when needed and is always out prior to the beginning of his scheduled shift.”

Hartley has taken the initiative to pursue difficult and complex cases usually reserved for seasoned deputies, Rackliffe said.

“Kevin is a huge asset for this department and has shown both his leadership and investigative skills and his willingness to use those skills for the advancement of this agency and for the benefit of this community,” he said.

Nichols presented Hartley with a certificate, a plaque and a pin.

Commissioners Gary McGrane of Jay, Fred Hardy of New Sharon and Clyde Barker of Strong congratulated Hartley.

dperry@sunmediagroup.net